THE traitor. A tragedy, WRITTEN BY JAMES SHIRLEY. ACTED By her Majesty's Servants.  
 
LONDON: Printed for William Cooke, and are to be sold at his Shop at Furnival's Inn-gate in Holborn. 1635.   

TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE, WILLIAM CAVENDISH, Earl of Newcastle, Viscount Mansfield, Lord Boulsover and Ogle.  
My Lord,  
THe Honour of your Name, and clearness of Soul, which want no living Monuments in the heart of Princes, have already made the Title of this Poëme innocent, though not the Author; who confesseth his guilt of a long ambition, by some Service to be known to you, and his boldness at last, by this rude attempt to kiss your Lordship's hands.  
Fame with one breath hath possessed the world with your Lordship's general knowledge, & excellent Nature, both, an ornament to your blood, & in both you stand the rare, and justified example to our age. To the last, these cold papers address themselves, which if (with truce to your richer contemplations) you vouchsafe to read and smile upon, not only they shall receive a life, beyond what the Scene exactly gave them, in the presentment, rewarded with frequent applause, but your Lordship shall infinitely honour him, whose glory is to be mentioned.  
The humblest of your Lordship's Servants,  
JAMES Shirley.   

To my Friend Master james Shirley, the Author.  
FRiend, how I haste into that name? my quill  
Runs fraught with my whole soul, and fears to spill  
One drop before it; proud to have men know  
The glory of the name thou didst bestow.  
And to derive Eternity thereto  
From this learned Work, which Marble could not do:  
Ambitious to posterity to send  
For light to both, thy Traitor and thy Friend.  
This, and I've said; for Friend I stand not here  
To praise, or in thy quarrel spend my jeer  
On some third man, nor Court I, I profess  
The humorous Reader into Gentleness:  
No Friend, thou Writ'st before, thyself, and when  
SHIRLEY is named, Praise is the same again.  WILL ATKINS of Gray's Inn.  

THE SCENE, Florence.  

The Persons.  
Duke of Florence.  
Lorenzo, His Kinsman and Favourite.  
Sciarrha, Brother to Amidea.  
Pisano, Lover to Oriana.  
Cosmo, His friend.  
Florio, Sciarrha's brother.  
Depazzi, A creature of Lorenzo's.  
Frederico, Noblemen.  
Alonzo,  
Petruchio, Pisano's Servant.  
Rogero, Page to Depazzi.  
Gentlemen.  
Servants.   

Amidea, Sciarrha's Sister.  
Oriana, Beloved of Pisano.  
Morossa, Her Mother.  
Lust. Pleasure. Furies.    

THE traitor.  

Actus primus.  Enter Pisano and Petruchio. Pisano. 
Didst bid him come?  Pet. 
I did.  Pis. 

Go back again,  
And tell him, I am gone abroad.   Pet. 

he's here Enter Cosm.  
Already Sir.   Pis. 
Oh Cosmo!  Cos. 

Dear Pisano,  
That I could let thee nearer, into me,  
My heart counts this embrace a distance, yet,  
Let us incorporate.   Pis. 

I was wooing Cosmo,  
My man, to tell thee, I was gone abroad,  
Before thou cam'st.   Cos. 

How's this? your words and looks  
Are strange, and teach me to infer I am  
Not welcome, that on riper Counsel, you  
Do wish my absence.   Pis. 

What for telling truth?  
He thus should ha' but made thee fit to see  
Thy friend, thou com'st with expectation  
To hear me talk sense, dost not?   Cos. 
Yes.  Pis. 

La now!  
And to discourse as I was wont, of State,  
Our friendship, or of women, no such matter.   Cos. 

This is more wild than usual, your language  
I not so clear as it was wont, it carries  
Not the same even thread although some words  
May knit, the sense is scattered.   Pis. 

Right, right Cosmo,  
The reason is, I ha' straggled,  
And lost myself I know not where, in what  
Part of the world, and would not this be shown  
As well in him, to ha' prepared thee now?   Cos. 
What humour's this Pisano, I am yet to understand?  Pis. 

To understand? why Cosmo,  
Had I not changed my Dialect and Method,  
What need this tedious Apology?  
That's it, I would have had thee known before,  
Thou canst not understand me, yet thou hast  
A name in Florence, for a ripe young man,  
Of nimble apprehension, of a wise  
And spreading observation, of whom  
Already our old men do prophesy  
Good, and great things, worthy thy fair dimensions.   Cos. 

This is an argument above the rest,  
Pisano is not well; for being temperate,  
He was not wont to flatter, and abuse  
His friend.   Pis. 

Beside, there is another reason,  
Thou shouldst discover me at heart, through all  
These mist, thou art in love too, and who cannot,  
That feels himself the heat, but shrewdly guess  
At every symptom of that Wanton Fever,  
Oh Cosmo!   Cos. 

What misfortune can approach  
Your happy love in fairest Amidea,  
You have been long contracted, and have passed  
The tedious hope, Hymen, doth only wait  
An opportunity to light his torch,  
Which will burn glorious at your nuptial:  
Let jealous, lovers fear and feel what 'tis  
To languish, talk away their blood, and strength▪  
Question their unkind stars, you have game  
Before you sir.   Pis. 

Before me where? why dost  
Thou mock me Cosmo? she's not here:   Cos. 

It is  
No pilgrimage to travel to her lip.   Pis. 
'tis not for you.  Cos. 

How sir for me? y'ave no  
Suspicion, I can be guilty of  
A treason, to our friendship, be so just,  
If malice have been busy, with my fame,  
To let me know——   Pi. 

You hastily interpret,  
Thy pardon I have only erred, but not  
With the least scruple of thy faith, and honour  
To me, thou hast a noble Soul, and lov'st me  
Rather too well, I would thou wert my enemy,  
That we had been borne in distant climes, and never  
Took cement from our Sympathies in nature.  
Would we had never seen, or known each other,  
This may seem strange, from him, that loves thee Cosmo,  
More precious than his life.   Cos. 

Love me, and, wish  
This separation?   Pis. 

I will give thee proof;  
So well I love thee, nothing in the world  
Thy soul doth heartily affect, but I  
Do love it too, does it not trouble thy  
Belief? I wear not my own heart about me,  
But thine exchanged, thy eyes let in my objects,  
Thou hear'st for me, talk'st, kissest, and enjoyst  
All my felicities.   Cos. 
What means this language?  Pis. 

But what's all this to thee? go to Oriana,  
And bathe thy lips in Rosy dew of kisses,  
Renew thy eye that looks as Saturn hung  
Upon the lid, take in some golden beam,  
she'll dart a thousand at one glance, and if  
At thy return, thou findst I have a being  
In this vain world, I'll tell thee more.   Exit. Cos. 
But sir, you must not part so.  Pet. 

Not with my good will,  
I have no great ambition to be mad.   Cos. 

Petruchio, let me conjure thee, tell  
What weight hangs on thy Master's heart? why does he  
Appear so full of trouble?   Pet. 
D''ee not guess?  Cos. 
Point at the cause, I cannot.  Pet. 
Why he loves—  Cos. 
The beauteous Amidea, I know that.  Pet. 

Some such thing was, but you are his friend, my Lord,  
His soul is now devoted to Oriana,  
And he will die for her, if this Ague hold him.   Cos. 
Ha.  Pet. 

Your doublet pinch you Sir? I cannot tell;  
But ne'er a woman in the world should make  
Me hang myself, it may be for his honour,  
he'll choose another death, he is about one;  
For 'tis not possible without some cure,  
He should live long, he has forgot to sleep,  
And for his diet, h'as not eat this se'night  
As much as would choke a Sparrow, a Fly is  
An Epicure to him: Good sir, do you counsel him.  
So, so, it works; Exit Cos.  
This was my Lord Lorenzo's plot, and I  
Ha' been his Engine in the work, to batter  
His love to Amidea, by praising  
Oriana to him, he is here, my Lord.   Enter Lorenzo attended. Lor. 
Petruchio, where's your Lord? how moves the work?  Pet. 

To your own wish my Lord, he has thrown off  
The thought of Amidea, and is mad  
For Cosmo's Mistress, whom by your instructions  
I have commended so—   Lor. 
My witty villain!  Pet. 

Cosmo is with him, to whom cunningly  
I ha' discovered his disease, and I  
Beseech you interrupt 'em not.   Lor. 

This may  
Have Tragical effects Petruchio:  
For Cosmo, we shall prune his fortune thus,  
Oriana's wealth would swell him in the Seat,  
He grows too fast already, be still ours.   Pet. 

My Lord, you bought my life, when you procured  
My pardon from the Duke.   Exit Lor. Enter Pisa. and Cosmo. Pis. 

O friend, thou canst not be so merciful,  
To give away such happiness, my Love  
Is for some sin I have committed, thus  
Transplanted, I looked rather thou shouldst kill me,  
Then give away this comfort, 'tis a charity  
Will make thee poor, and 'twere a great deal better  
That I should languish still, and die.   Cos. 

While I have art to help thee? Oriana  
And I were but in treaty, howsoever,  
I were not worthy to be called his friend,  
Whom I preferred not to a Mistress, if  
You can find dispensation, to quit  
With Amidea, your first love, be confident  
Oriana may be won, and it were necessary  
You did prepare the Mother, be not modest—   Pis. 

Each syllable is a blessing, hark  
Petruchio.   Cos. 

There is an Engine levelled at my fate,  
And I must arm,   Pis. 
Away.  Exit Pet. Cos. 

This for thy comfort,  
Although some compliments ha' passed between  
Me and Oriana, I am not warm  
Yet in the Mother's fancy, whose power may  
Assist you much, but lose no time, let's follow.   Pis. 
Thou miracle of friendship!  Exeunt. Enter Duke Frederico, Florio, and Alonso. Du. 
Letters to us? from whom?  Al. 
Castruchio.  Du. 
The exile? whence?  Al. 

Sienna my good Lord,  
It came enclosed within my Letter, which  
Imposed my care and duty, in the swift  
Delivery.   Fr. 
The Duke is pale oath sudden.  Du. 

A Palsy does possess me, ha? Lorenzo?  
Our x, the enemy of our life and State,  
My bosom Kinsman? not too loud, the Traitor  
May hear, and by escape prevent our justice.   Flo. 
What Traitor?  Du. 

Signior Alonso, come you hither,  
What correspondency maintain you with this  
Castruchio?   Al. 

None my Lord, but I am happy  
In his election, to bring the first  
Voice to your safety.   Du. 

Most ingrateful man!  
Turn Rebel? I have worn him in my blood.   Al. 
'tis time to purge the humour.  Du. 

I will do't.  
Our guard, were he more precious, had he shared  
Our soul, as he but borrows of our flesh,  
This action makes him nothing, had I been  
In heaven, I could have lent him my eternity,  
He turn conspirator? oh the fate of Princes!  
But stay, this paper speaks of no particular,  
He does not mention what design what plot▪   Al. 
More providence is necessary,  Du. 

Right, right, good Alonso, thou'rt an honest man  
And lov'st us well, what's to be done?   Al. 

'tis best  
To make his person sure, by this you may  
Discover soonest who are of his faction   Du. 

And at our leisure study of his punishment,  
Which must exceed death, every common trespass  
Is so rewarded, first apply all tortures  
To enforce confession, who are his confederates,.  
And how they meant to murder us, than some rare  
Invention to execute the Traitor,  
So as he may be half a year a dying,  
Will make us famed for justice.   Enter Lorenzo Depazzi. Al. 

He is here,  
shall's apprehend him?   Lo. 

Happy morning to  
My gracious Sovereign.   Du. 

Good morrow coz.  
Can Treason couch itself within that frame?  
We ha' letters for you.   Lo. 

Letters, these dread sir  
Have no direction to me, your highness  
Is only named.   Du. 

They will concern your reading,  
Alonso now observe and watch him Florio,  
Depazzi come you hither, does Lorenzo  
Look like a Traitor?   Dep. 
How sir? a Traitor?  Du. 
ay sir.  Dep. 

ay sir, by my honour not I sir, I defy  
Him that speaks it; I am in a fine pickle   Lor. 
I ha' read—  Du. 

No blush? not tremble? read again  
The substance is, that you maintain  
A vigilant eye over Lorenzo, who  
Hath threatened with your death, his country's liberty  
And other things, touching reducing of  
A common wealth.   Du. 
I like not that.  Dep. 

All's out:  
A pox upon him for a Traitor, he  
Has hedged me in but I'll confess—   Du. 

What answer  
Make you to this Lorenzo?   Lor. 

This o'th' sudden,  
Sir I must owe the title of a Traitor  
To your high favours; Envy first conspired,  
And malice now accuses, but what story,  
Mentioned his name, that had his PRINCE's bosom,  
Without the people's hate, 'tis sin enough  
In some men to be great, the throng of stars  
The rout, and common people of the sky,  
Move still another way then the Sun does,  
That guilds the creature, take your honour's back,  
And if you can, that purple of my veins,  
Which flows in yours, and you shall leave me in  
A state I sha'not fear the great ones envy,  
Nor common people's rage, and yet perhaps  
You may be credulous against me.   Du. 
Ha!  All. 
The Duke is cool.  Du. 

Alonzo look you prove.  
Lorenzo what you say.   All. 

I say my Lord?  
I have discovered all my knowledge sir:   Dep. 
stand to't—  Lo. 

With licence of your highness, what  
Can you imagine I should gain by Treason?  
Admit I should be impious, as to kill you,  
I am your nearest kinsman, and should forfeit  
Both name and future title to the State,  
By such a hasty, bloody disposition,  
The rabble hate me now, how shall I then  
Expect a safety? is it reformation,  
Of Florence they accuse me of? suggesting  
I disaffect a Monarchy, which how  
Vain and ridiculous would appear in me,  
Your wisdom judge, in you I live and flourish,  
What in your death can I expect, to equal  
The riches I enjoy under your warmth?  
Should I for the air, and talk of a new government,  
A Common wealth, lose all my certainties?  
And you above 'em all, whose favours have  
fall'n like the Dew upon me? have I a soul  
To think the guilt of such a murder easy,  
Were there no other torments? or can I  
Expect the people will reward your murderer  
With any thing but death, a parricide?   Al. 
So so the Duke's already in his circle.  Lor. 

But I am tame, as if I had no sense  
Nor other argument to vindicate  
My Loyalty, thus poisoned by a paper,  
In my eternal fame, and by a slave?  
Call to my brow, some one that dare accuse me,  
Let him have honour, great as mine, to forfeit,  
Or since your grace hath taken me so near,  
Your own height, that may seal may not expect  
Such a proportioned adversary, yet let him  
Have name within his Country, and allow him  
A Soul, against which, I may engage my more,  
Then equal honour, then I'll praise your justice  
But let him not be one condemned already,  
A desperate exile— is it possible  
A Treason hatched in Florence, 'gainst the Duke  
Should have no eyes at home to penetrate,  
The growing danger but at Sienna, one  
Must with a perspective discover all?  
Ask this good Councillor, or these gentlemen  
Whose faiths are tried, whose cares are always waking  
About your person, how have I appeared  
To them, that thus I should be rendered hateful,  
To you and my good Country, they are virtuous  
And dare not blemish a white faith, accuse  
My sound heart of dishonour? sir you must  
Pardon my bold defence, my virtue bleeds  
By your much easiness, and I am compelled  
To break all modest limits, and to waken  
Your memory (if it be not too late  
To say you have one,) with the story of  
My fair deservings, who sir overthrew  
With his designs your late ambitious brother  
Hippolito, who like a Meteor threatened  
A black and fatal omen?   Du. 
'twas Lorenzo.  Lo. 

Be yet as just, and say whose art directed  
A countermine to check the pregnant hopes  
Of Salviati, who for his cardinal's Cap,  
In Rome was potent, and here popular?   Du. 
None but Lorenzo.  Dep. 
Admirable Traitor?  Lor. 

Whose service was commended when the exiles  
One of whose tribe accuseth me had raised  
Commotions in our Florence when the hindga  
Of State did faint under the burden, and  
The people sweat with their own fears, to think  
The Soldier should inhabit their calm dwellings,  
Who then rose up your safety, and crushed all  
Their plots to air?   Du. 
Our dear cousin Lorenzo.  Lor. 

When he that should reward, forgets the men  
That purchased his security, 'tis virtue  
To beast a merit with my services  
I ha' not starved your treasury, the grand  
Captain Gonzales accounted to King Ferdinand,  
Three hundred thousand crowns, for spies, what bills  
Have I brought in for such intelligence?   Dep. 

I do grow hearty  
All thy actions  
Stand fresh before us, and confirm, thou art  
Our best and dearest friend, thus we assure  
Our confidence, they love us not that feed  
One jealous thought of our dear coz Lorenzo  
New welcome to us all, for you Alonzo  
Give o'er your paper kites, learn wit, 'tis time.  
Where shall we meet tonight?   Lo. 
Pardon me sir I am a dangerous man.  Du. 

No more a that  
I'll credit my soul with thee, shall we revel  
This night with Amidea?   Dep. 

The Duke courts him,  
Well go thy ways, for one of the most excellent  
Impudent Traitors—   Du. 

Yet a murmuring  
Of a Traitor? we shall sooner suspect him,  
That thinks Lorenzo guilty.   Dep. 

I my Lord,  
Dare boldly swear, his honour is as free—  
From any treason, as myself,  
I did prophesy this issue.   Duk. 

'Tis an age  
Till night, I long to fold her in my arms,  
Prepare Sciarrha, but be very wise  
In the discovery, he is all touchwood.   Lor. 

I know he is her brother, leave the managing  
Of things to me.   Tu. 

Still when we expect,  
Our bliss, time creeps, but when the happier things  
Call to enjoy, each saucy hour hath wings.   Exeunt.  

ACTVS SECVNDVS.  Enter Sciarrha and Lorenzo. Sciarrha. 

MY Sister, though he be the Duke, he dares not,  
Patience, patience, if there be such a virtue,  
I want it Heaven, yet keep't a little longer,  
It were a sin to have it, such an injury  
Deserves a wrath next to your own, my Sister?  
It has thrown wildfire in my brain Lorenzo,  
A thousand furies revel in my skull,  
Has he not sins enough in's Court to damn him.  
But my Roof must be guilty of new jousts,  
And none but Amidea? these the honours  
His presence brings our house?   Lo. 
Temper your rage.  Sci. 

Are all the Brothels rifled? no quaint piece  
Left him in Florence, that will meet his hot  
And valiant luxury, that we are come  
To supply his blood out of our families?  
Diseases gnaw his title off.   Lo. 
My Lord—  Sci. 

He is no Prince of mine, he forfeited  
His greatness, that black minute he first gave  
Consent to my dishonour.   Lo. 
Then I'm sorry.  Sci. 

Why should you be sorry sir?  
You say it is my Sister he would strumpet,  
Mine, Amidea? 'tis a wound you feel not,  
But it strikes through, and through the poor Sciarrah,  
I do not think, but all the ashes of  
My Ancestors do swell in their dark urns  
At this report, of Amidea's shame:  
It is their cause as well as mine, and should  
Heaven suffer the Duke's sin to pass unpunished,  
Their dust must of necessity conspire,  
To make an earthquake in the Temple.   Lo. 

Sir,  
You said you would hear me out.   Sci. 

Why is there more  
Behind?   Lo. 

And greater Master, your high blood  
Till I conclude Sciarrha, I accuse not  
Your noble anger, which I have observed,  
Is not on every cheap and giddy motion  
Inflamed, but Sir, be thrifty in your passion,  
This is a petty trespass.   Sci. 

Has mischief any name  
Beyond this? will it kill me with the sound?   Lo. 

My Lord, though the dishonouring your Sister,  
Be such a fact, the blood of any other  
But Alexander could no less than expiate,  
Yet this sin stretches farther, and involves  
With hers, your greater stain did you e'er promise him?  
Yet why do I make any question?  
It were another crime, to think Afrique  
Could entertain a thought, so far beneath  
His birth, you stoop to such a horrid baseness,  
Than all the virtue of mankind would sicken,  
And soon take leave of earth.   Sci. 
You torture me.  Lo. 

What then could the Duke find, to give him any  
Encouragement you would be guilty of  
An act, so fatal unto honour, what  
When you were least yourself? (as we are all  
Frail compositions) did appear so wicked  
In you, he should conceive a hope, and flatter  
Himself with possibility, to corrupt  
Your Soul to a deed so monstrous?   Sci. 
To what?  Lo. 

Though all the teeming glories of His Dukedom,  
Nay Florence State offered it self a bribe▪  
And tempted the betraying of your name  
To infamy, yet to imagine, you  
Would turn officious pander to his lust,  
And interpose the mercenary bawd.  
To Court your Sister to his sinful coupling:  
'tis horrid, affrights nature, I grow stiff  
With the imagination.   Sci. 
Hah!  Lo. 
Yet this was his command I should impose.  Sci. 

Lorenzo,  
I do want breath, my voice is ravished from me,  
I am not what I was, or if I be,  
Sciarrha thou hast talked too, all this while  
Look heedfully about me, and thou mayst  
Discover through some cranny of my flesh,  
A fire within, my soul is but one flame,  
Extended to all parts of this frail building,  
I shall to ashes, I begin to shrink,  
Is not already my complexion altered,  
Does not my face look parched, and my skin gather  
Into a heap? my breath is hot enough  
To thaw the Alps.   Lo. 

Your fancy would  
Transport you.   Sci. 

'tis my rage, but let it cool,  
And then we'll talk o'something, something sir,  
Shall be to purpose.   Lo. 

Now the flame is mounted,  
My Lord I have given proof, although he be  
My Duke, and Kinsman, I abhorred his vices,  
howe'er the world without examination,  
Shoot their malicious noise, and stain my actions:  
'tis policy in Princes, to create  
A Favourite, who must bear all the guilt  
Of things ill managed in the State, if any  
Design be happy, 'tis the PRINCE's own.  
Heaven knows, how I have counselled this young man,  
By virtue to prevent his fate, and govern  
With modesty: O the religious days  
Of Commonwealths!  
We have outlived that blessing.   Sci. 

But I have thought a cure for this great State  
Impostume.   Lo. 
What?  Sci. 

To lance it, is't, not ripe?  
let's draw cuts, whether your hand or mine  
Shall do an act for Florence liberty,  
And send this Tyrant to another world.   Lo. 
How, I draw cuts?  Sci. 

Coy it not thus Lorenzo,  
But answer, by thy name and birth, you are  
His Kinsman; we all know it, that you dwell  
In's bosom, great in favour, as in blood,  
We know that too, and let me tell you more:  
We know you but disguise your heart, and wish  
Florence would change her title.   Lo. 
How is this?  Sci. 

We know you have firm correspondence with  
The banished men, whose desperate fortunes wait  
Your call to tumult, in our streets, all this,  
Not to feed your ambition with a Dukedom,  
By the remove of Alexander, but  
To serve your Country, and create their peace,  
Who groan under the Tyranny of a proud,  
Lascivious Monarch, is't not true Lorenzo?  
My phrase is blunt my Lord.   Lo. 

My Genius  
And thine are friends, I see they have conversed  
And I Applaud the wisdom of my Stars,  
That made me for his friendship, who preserves  
The same religious fire, I will confess,  
When Alexander left his piety  
To Florence, I placed him beneath my Country,  
As we should all, but we have lost our souls'  
Or changed our active spirits, for a dull  
And lazy sufferance, let this secret be  
an argument, how much I dare repose  
Upon Sciarrha's honour, virtue witness,  
I choose no other destiny, command  
Lorenzo's fate, dissolve me with your breath,  
I'll either ive, in your exchange of faith  
A patriot, or die my country's martyr.   Sci. 

Thou hast a fire beyond Prometheus  
To quicken earth, thy flame is but a prophecy  
Of that high pyramid, the world shall build  
To thy immortal name: it was the glory  
Of Romans to prefer their empire's safety  
To their own lives, they were but men like us,  
And of the same ingredients, our souls  
Create of no inferior substance; ha?   Lo. 

Heaven knows I've no particular design  
To leap unto a throne, I will disclaim  
The privilege of blood, let me advance  
Our liberty, restore the ancient Laws  
Of the republic, rescue from the jaws  
Of lust your mothers, wives, your daughters, sisters,   Sci. 
Sisters.  Lo. 
From horrid Rape 'las Amidea:  Sci. 

I am resolved, by all that's blessed, he dies  
Return my willingness to be his pander,  
My sister's readiness to meet his Dalliance,  
His promises have bought our shame, he dies,  
The roof he would dishonour with his Lust  
Shall be his tomb, bid him be confident,  
Conduct him good Lorenzo, I'll dispose  
My house for this great scene of death.   Lo. 
Be constant.  Exit. Enter Florio, and his Sister Amidea. Flo. 
Now brother, what news brings the great Lorenzo?  Sci. 

Let me have truce vexation for some minutes,  
What news? preferments, honours, offices;  
Sister, you must to Court.   Am. 
Who, I to Court?  Sci. 

Or else the Court will come to you, the Duke  
Hath sent already for us Amidea:  
O that I knew what happy Stars did govern  
At thy Nativity: It were no sin  
To adore their influence.   Am. 
What means my brother?  Flo. 
he's transported.  Am. 
I shall suspect your health.  Sci. 

I easily could forget I am Sciarrha,  
And fall in love myself, is she not fair,  
Exceeding beautiful, and tempting Florio?  
Look on her well, methinks I could turn Poet,  
And make her a more excellent piece than heaven.  
Let not fond men hereafter command what  
They most admire, by fetching from the Stars  
Or flowers their glory of similitude;  
But from thyself the role to know all beauty,  
And he that shall arrive at so much boldness,  
To say his Mistress eyes, or voice, or breath,  
Are half so bright, so clear, so sweet as thine,  
Hath told the world enough of miracle.  
These are the Duke's own Raptures, Amidea,  
His own Poetic flames, an argument  
He loves my Sister.   Ami. 
Love me?  Sci. 

Infinitely,  
I am in earnest, he employed Lorenzo,  
No meaner person in this embassy,  
You must to Court, Oh happiness!   Ami. 
For what?  Sci, 

What do great Ladies do at Court I pray?  
Enjoy the pleasures of the world, dance, kiss  
The Amorous Lords, and change Court breath, sing loose  
Belief of other, heaven, tell wanton dreams,  
Rehearse your sprightly bed-scenes, and boast, which  
Hath most Idolaters, accuse all faces,  
That trust to the simplicity of nature,  
Talk witty blasphemy,  
Discourse their gaudy wardrobes, plot new pride,  
Jest upon courtier's legs, laugh at the wagging  
Of their own feathers, and a thousand more  
Delights, which private Ladies never think of:  
But above all, and wherein thou shalt make  
All other beauties envy thee, the Duke,  
The Duke himself shall call thee his, and single  
From the fair troop, thy person forth, to exchange  
Embraces with, lay siege to these soft lips,  
And not remove, till he hath sucked thy heart,  
Which soon dissolved with thy sweet breath, shall be  
Made part of his, at the same instant, he  
Conveying a new soul into thy breast,  
With a creating kiss.   Ami. 

You make me wonder,  
Pray speak that I may understand.   Sci. 

Why will you  
Appear so ignorant? I speak the dialect  
Of Florence to you, come, I find your cunning;  
The news does please, the rolling of your eye  
Betrays you, and I see a guilty blush  
Through this white veil upon your cheek, you would  
Have it confirmed, you shall, the Duke himself  
Shall swear he loves you.   Am. 
Love me? why?  Sci. 

To Court,  
And ask him; be not you too peevish now,  
And hinder all our fortune; I ha' promised him  
To move you for his armful, as I am  
Sciarrha, and your brother, more I ha' sent  
Word to him by Lorenzo, that you should  
Meet his high flame, in plain Italian  
Love him, and—   Ami. 
What for heaven, be the Duke's whore?  Sci. 
No, no, his Mistress, command him, make us.  Ami. 
Give up my Virgin-honour to his lust?  Sci. 
You may give it a better name, but do't.  Ami. 
I do mistake you brother, do I not?  Sci. 
No, no, my meaning is so broad, you cannot.  Ami. 

I would I did then, is't not possible  
That this should be a dream? where did you drop  
Your virtue Sir? Florio, why move you not?  
Why are you slow to tell this man? for sure  
'tis not Sciarrah, he hath talked so ill,  
And so much, that we may have cause to fear,  
The air about's infected.   Flo. 

Are not you  
My brother?   Sci. 

Be not you a fool, to move  
These empty questions, but join to make her  
Supple, and pliant for the Duke, I hope  
We are not the first ha' been advanced by a wagtail:  
No matter for the talk of musty people,  
Look up to the reward, thou art young, and skilled  
In these Court temptings, naturally soft,  
And moving, I am rough hewn, assist, wilt,  
With some quaint charm, to win her to this game?   Flo. 
My Sister?  Sci. 
ay, I.  Ami. 

Come not near him Florio,  
'tis not Sciarrha, sure my brother's Nurse  
Played the impostor, and with some base issue  
Cheated our house.   Sci. 

Gipsy, use better language,  
Or I'll forget your sex.   Flo. 

Offer to touch her  
With any rudeness, and by all that's virtuous▪—   Sci. 
Why how now boy?  Flo. 

I do not fear your sword,  
This with my youth, and innocence, is more  
Defence than all thy armoury, what Devil  
Has crept into thy soul?   Sci. 
You'll not help?  Flo. 
I'll never kill thee.  Sc. 

'tis very well,  
Have you considered better o'the motion?   Am. 
Yes.  Sci. 
And what's your resolve  Am. 

To have my name  
Stand in the Ivory register of Virgins,  
When I am dead, before one factious thought  
Should lurk within mee to betray my fame,  
To such a blot, my hands shall mutiny,  
And boldly with a poniard teach my heart  
To weep out a repentance.   Sci, 

Let me kill thee  
My excellent chaste sister, Floria  
Thou hast my soul, I did but try your virtues,  
'Tis truth, the Duke does love thee, viciously,  
Let him, let him, he comes to be our guest,  
This night he means to revel at our house,  
The Tarquin shall be entertained; he shall,   Serv. 
My Lord, Pisano is come.  Sci. 

I had forgot his promise, Look up Sister  
And shine with thy own smiles, Pisano's come,  
Pisano thy contracted, honoured friend,  
A gentleman so rich in hopes, we shall Enter a servant.  
be happy in's alliance.   Enter Pisano, Cosmo, Freder. 

Welcome all,  
But you above the rest, my brother shortly,  
Sister and Florio entertain your noble  
Friends, some few minutes, I am absent, we  
Must not forget prepare for the Duke's coming,  
I'll soon return   Exit. Am. 

You are not cheerful sir.  
How is't my Lord? you were not wont to look  
So sad when you came hither.   Pis. 
I am not well Amidea.  Am, 
Oh my heart!  Pis, 

Be you  
Comforted Lady let all griefs repair  
To this, their proper Centre.   Flo. 
Sir how fare you?  Pis. 
Altered of late a little.  Fred. 

Virtuous Lady,  
I cannot choose but pity her, and accuse  
Pisano's levity.   Pis. 

would he were come back,  
I might ha' finished ere he went, and not  
Delayed his business much, two or three words,  
And I had dispatched.   Am. 

How sir? your language is  
Another then you use to speak, you look not  
With the same brow upon me.   Cos. 

'las sweet Lady,  
But who shall accuse me?   Pis. 

we shall expect too long, Lady I am come  
To render all my interest in your love,  
And to demand myself again, live happier,  
In other choice Fair Amidea, 'tis  
Some shame to say my hearts revolted.   Am. 
Ha.  Pis. 

here's witness, all is canceled betwixt us,  
Nay and you weep—  
Farewell.   Am. 
he's gone.  Flo. 
I am amazed.  Pis. 
Now lead me to my blessing.  Exit. Flo. 

Shall a long suit and speeding in his love  
With the world's notice, and a general fame  
Of contract too, just in the instant when  
A marriage is expected, be broke off  
With infamy to our house.   Am. 

Brother, if ever  
You loved poor Amidea, let not this  
Arrive Sciarrha's ere there's danger in  
His knowledge of it, this may be a trial  
Of my affection   Flo. 

A trial; no  
It showed too like a truth   Am. 

My tears entreat  
Your silence   Flo. 

You have  
Power to command it, dry your eyes then,  
he's returned.   Enter Sciarrha. Sci. 

How now,  
Weeping? where is Pisano, and his friends?   Flo. 
Their gon sir.  Sci 
Ha!  Am. 

Guess by my eyes, you may  
Something of sorrow hath befallen, no sooner  
You were departed, cut some strange distemper  
Invaded him, we might discern a change  
In's countenance, and though we prayed him to  
Repose with us, he would straight back again,  
So with Frederico,  
And signior Cosmo, he returned.   Flo. 
The alteration was strange and sudden.  Sci. 

'las noble gentleman— but come clear up  
Your face again, we hope it won't last,  
Look bright again I say, I ha' given order—   Enter Gentleman. Genu. 
My Lord the Dukes already come.  Sci. 

Remove,  
Good Amidea, and reserve thy person  
To Crown his entertainment, be not seen yet.   Exit Am. Enter Duke Lorenzo, Alonzo, attendants. Du. 
Sciarrah, we are come to be your guest.  Sci. 
Your highness doth an honour to our house.  Du. 
But where's thy Sister, she must bid us welcome  Sci. 
She is your grace's handmaid,  Du. 

For this night,  
Let the whole world conspire to our delight.  
Lorenzo—   Whisper. Lor. 
Sir be confident— and perish.  Enter Morosa, and Oriana in the garden. Mor. 

You should not rashly give away your heart,  
Nor must you without me dispose yourself,  
Pray give access to none— yet if Pisano  
inquire, direct him to the garden, Cosmo  
Is young, and promising, but while Lorenzo  
Lives must expect no sunshine.   Enter Pisano, Cosmo, Servant. Pis. 

There's for thy pains,  
They are now at opportunity   Cos. 

My Lord,  
Do you prepare the Mother, and let me close  
With Oriana.   Pis. 
What service can reward thee?  Cos. 

Take occasion  
To leave us private, this hour be  
Propitious, win but the Matron to you.   Pis. 
She is prepared already  Cos. 

Lose no time  
Take the other walk.   Exit Pis. & Mor. Ori. 
My dear Cosmo:  Cos. 
My best Oriana.  Ori. 
You have been too much absent I must chide you  Cos. 

You cannot sweet, I would I knew which way.  
To make thee angry, yes, that I might see  
How well it would become thee, I do fear  
Thou art some Angel, and that sin would be  
An argument, to me, that thou wert mortal  
I must suspect thy too much goodness else,  
And leave thee for the fellowship of Saints,  
I am too wicked.   Ori. 
You will make me angry.  Cos. 
But you will love me still, I fear.  Ori. 

D''ee fear it?  
is't a misfortune?   Cos. 
What?  Ori. 
My love  Cos. 

Your anger,  
And yet the tother often times may carry  
An evil with it, we may love to well  
And that's a fault   Ori. 
Not where the objects good.  Cos. 
Oyes: Always beware of the extremes.  Ori. 

What mean you? I affect none but my Cosmo,  
Nor him with too much flame.   Cos. 

If you should Lady, 'twere  
Not nobly done.   Ori. 
To love another?  Cos. 

Yes,  
If there be cause, that may be called a virtue:  
For what have I to engross the affection  
Of any Lady, if she can discern  
A greater merit in some other man:  
Wisdom forbid, but she command her smiles,  
To warm and cherish him.   Ori. 
So we should be inconstant.  Cos. 

Why not, if our reason be  
Convinced, that's no such fault as the world goes:  
Let us examine all the creatures, read  
The book of Nature through, and we shall find  
Nothing doth still the same, the stars do wander  
And have their divers influence, the Elements  
Shuffle into innumerable changes,  
Our constitutions vary, Herbs, and Trees  
Admit their Frosts and Summer: and why then  
Should our desires, that are so nimble, and  
More subtle than the spirits in our blood,  
Be such stayed things within us, and not share  
Their natural liberty, shall we admit a change  
In smaller of things, and not allow it in  
What most of all concerns us?   Ori. 
What?  Cos. 
Our Loves?  Ori. 

Have you a suspicion I am changed, and thus  
Would school me for it, or shall I imagine  
That you are altered.   Cos. 

Yes, I am, and therefore  
Proclaim thy freedom, I do love thee less,  
To show I love thee more.   Ori. 
What riddle's this.  Cos. 

I will explain, upon maturity  
Of Council Oriana, I have found  
I am not worthy of thee, therefore come  
To make thee satisfaction for my sin  
Of loving thee, by pointing out a way,  
And person, will become thy affection better.   Ori. 
You have a pretty humour.  Cos. 

What dost think  
Of brave Pisano, shall his merit plead  
Succession in thy chaste thoughts?   Ori. 
I do know him.  Cos. 

Thou canst not choose, and I could study none  
Worthy thy love but him.   Ori. 
'tis very likely you would resign then.  Cos. 

I to honour thee,  
His service will deserve thee at the best,  
And richest value.   Ori. 
Why it shall be so.  Cos. 

Nay but be serious, and declare me happy  
That I may say, I have made thee just amends.  
I will thank thee.   Ori. 
Why sir I do love him.  Cos. 

Oh when did Cupid aim that golden shaft  
But dost thou love him perfectly with a  
Desire, when sacred rites of marriage  
Are passed, to meet him in thy bed, and call him  
Thy husband?   Ori. 

Why sir, did you ever think  
I was so taken with your worth, and person,  
I could not love another Lord as well?  
By your favour, there be many as proper men,  
And as deserving, you may save your plea,  
And be assured I need no lesson to  
Direct my fancy, I did love Pisano,  
Before, but for your sake, I mean to place him,  
A great deal nearer, sure he does but jest. You did love me.   Cos. 
Now by my heart. I love thee.  Cos. 

This act shall crown our story Oriana,  
Thou dost not know how much thou honourest me,  
For he's not in the common list of friends,  
And he does love thee past imagination  
Next his religion, he has placed the thought  
Of Oriana, he sleeps nothing else.  
And I shall wake him into Heaven, to say  
Thou hast consented to be his.   Ori. 

Pray tell me:  
But truly I beseech you, do you wish  
Pisano mine indeed? are you jealous,  
And name him to accuse me?   Cos. 

Not by goodness,  
But if there be a charm beyond thy innocence,  
By that I would conjure thee Oriana,  
Love him and make three happy, it shall be  
My bliss to call you his, let me but o wne  
A servant in your memory.   Ori. 

Unkind,  
And cruel Cosmo, dost thou think it possible,  
I can love any but thyself? thou wilt  
Undo my heart for ever.   Enter Pisano and Morossa. Mor. 

You shall be  
Ever most welcome, if I be her Mother,  
She must declare obedience, Oriana—   Cos. 

Go cheerfully, thy Mother calls, to him  
Whose Orator I have been, alas poor Lady,  
I half repent me since she is so constant:  
But a friend's life weighs down all other love;  
Beside, I thus secure my fate, Lorenzo  
Threatens my spring, he is my enemy.   Ori. 
You'll not compel affection?  Pis. 

No, but Court it  
With honour, and religion, thus invite it,   Mor. 

I shall forget the nature of a Parent,  
Unless you show more softness, and regard  
To what is urged, what promise could you make  
To Cosmo without me? or if you had—   Cos. 

Here Cosmo 'doth give up all title to it,  
I have no part in Oriana now:   Ori. 

I've heard too much, do with me what you please  
I am all passive, nothing of myself,  
But an obedience to unhappiness.   Exit. Cos. 
Follow her Pisano.  Pis. 
thouart all friendship.  Cos. 

Trace their warm steps, Virgins resolves are weak.  
Leave not her eyes, until you see day break.   Exeunt.  

ACTVS TERTIVS.  Enter Depazzi and Rogero. Depazzi. 
ROgero?  Ro. 
My Lord.  Dep. 
Make fast the Chamber-door, stifle the keyhole and the crannies, I must discourse of secret matters, dost thou smell nothing Rogero? ha?  Ro. 
Smell? not any thing my Lord to offend my nostril.  Dep. 

Come hither, what do the people talk abroad of me?  
Answer me justly, and to the point what do they say?   Ro. 
Faith my Lord, they say that you are—  Dep. 
They lie, I am not, they are a lousy impudent multitude, a many-headed, and many horned generation, to say that I am—  Ro. 
A noble gentleman, a just and discreet Lord, and one that deserved to have his honours without money.  Dep. 
Oh is that it? I thought the rabble would have said, I had been a Traitor, I am half mad certainly ere since I consented to Lorenzo, 'tis a very hard condition, that a man must lose his head to recompense the procuring of his honours: what if I discover him to the Duke, ten to one, if Lorenzo come but to speak, his grace won't ha' the grace to believe me and then I run the hazard to be thrown out of all at other side: 'tis safest to be a Traitor, hum, who is that you whispered to?  Ro. 
I whisper?  Dep. 
Marry did you sirrah.  Ro. 
Not I good faith my Lord.  Dep. 
Sirrah, sirrah, sirrah, I smell a Rat behind the hangings? Here's nobody, ha? are there no Trunks to convey secret voices?  Ro. 
Your Lordship has a pair on.  Dep. 
I do not like that face i'th' arras, a my conscience he points at me, a pox upon this treason, I have no stomach to't, I do see myself upon a Scaffold, making a pitiful speech already, I shall ha' my head cut off, seven years ago I laid my head upon a wager I remember, and lost it; let me see, it shall be so, 'tis good policy to be armed, Rogero, imagine I were a Traitor.  Ro. 
How sir?  Dep. 
ay but say imagine, we may put the case, and that I were apprehended for a Traitor.  Ro. 
Heaven defend.  Dep. 

Heaven has something else to do, than to defend Traitors:  
I say, Imagine I were brought to the bar.   Ro. 
Good my Lord, you brought to the bar?  Dep. 

I will beat you, if you won't imagine at my bidding:  
I say, suppose I now were at the bar to answer for my life.   Ro. 
Well sir.  Dep. 
Well sir, that's as it happens, you must imagine I will answer the best I can for myself, conceive I prithee, that these chairs were judges most grave and venerable beards and faces at my arraignment, and that thyself wert in the name of the Duke and state to accuse me what couldst thou say to me?  Ro. 
I accuse your good honour? for what I beseech you?  Dep. 
For high Treason you blockhead.  Ro. 
I must be acquainted with some particulars first.  Dep. 
Mass thou sayest right: why imagine, d''ee hear? you must but imagine, that some great-man had a conspiracy against the Duke's person, and that I being an honest Lord, and one of this great man's friends, had been drawn in, for that's the plain truth on't, 'twas against my will, but that's all one: Well, thou understandest me, show thy wit Rogero, scratch thy nimble pericranium, and thunder out my accusation ex tempore: Here I stand Signior Depazzi, ready to answer the indictment.  Ro. 
Good my Lord it will not become me, being your humble servant.  Dep. 
Humble Coxcomb, is't not for my good? I say, accuse me, bring it home, jerk me soundly to the quick Rogero, tickle me as thou lov'st thy Lord; I do defy thee, spare me not, and the devil take thee if thou be'st not malicious,  Ro. 
Why then have at you, first Signior Depazzi, thou art indicted of high Treason, hold up thy hand, guilty, or not guilty?  Dep. 
Very good.  Ro. 
Nay, very bad sir, answer I say, guilty or not guilty?  Dep. 
Not guilty.  Ro. 
'tis your best course to say so, well imagine I rise up the Duke's most learned in the Laws, and his nimble tongued Orator, have at your Signior.  Dep. 
Come, come on sir, here I stand.  Ro. 
I will prove thou liest in thy throat, if thou deniest thy Treason, and so I address myself to the most understanding seats of Justice, most wise, most honourable, and most incorrupt Judges, sleep not I beseech you, my place hath called me to plead in the behalf of my Prince and Country against this notable, this pernicious, and impudent Traitor, who hath plotted and contrived such high, heinous, and horrible treasons as no Age nor History hath ever mentioned the like. Here he stands, whose birth I will not touch, because it's altogether unknown who begot him: He was brought up among the small wares in the City, became rich by sinister and indirect practises, married a Merchant's wife at adventures, and was soon after advanced to be a Head-officer.  Dep. 
Why you rascal.  Ro. 
Peace sirrah, peace, nay your Lordships shall find him very audacious: This fellow not content to have his branches spread within the City, I speak it to his face, let him deny it, was afterward by the corruption of his confederate, and the mere grace of his highness raised to honour, received infinite favours from his Prince of blessed memory, yet like a wretch, a villain, a viper, a Rat of Nilus, he hath practised Treasons against the sacred person of the Duke, for which he deserveth not only to die, but also to suffer tortures, whips, racks, strappadoes, wheels, and all the fiery brazen bulls that can be invented, as I shall make it appear to this honourable and illustrious Court.  Dep. 
This rogues transported.  Ro. 
With all my heart I obey your Lordships— thus then I pass from these circumstances, and proceed to the principal villainies that we have to lay to his charge. Imprimis thou Signior Depazzi didst offer to a groom a 100 crowns to poison his highness' hunting saddle.  Dep. 
Did I?  Ro. 
Do not interrupt me varlet I will prove it, his hunting saddle, and woe shall be unto thy breech therefore, and finding this serpentine treason broken in the shell, do but lend your reverend ears to his next designs I will cut 'em off presently. This irreligious nay Atheistical Traitor, did with his own hands poison the Duke's prayer book, oh impiety! and had his highness as in former times, he accustomed but prayed once in a month, which by special grace he omitted, how fatal had it been to Florence? but as by justice his excellence did then, and by his own want of devotion, prevent this assassinate's purpose, so we hope in his own discretion, and the council of his state, he will take heed how he prays hereafter while he lives, to which every true subject will say Amen.  Dep. 
May it please your honours—  Ro. 
Thou impudent brazen faced Traitor, wilt thou deny it? more over, and like your good Lordships, he hath for this fortnight or three weeks before his apprehension, walked up and down the Court with a case of pistols charged wherewith, as he partly confessed, he intended to send the Duke to heaven with a powder.  Dep. 
This rogue will undo the Devil at invention, may it please this honourable—  Ro. 
These are but sprinklings of his treason.  Dep. 
Will you justify this? did I any of these things you tadpole?  Ro. 
Hold yourself contented my Lord, he that is brought to the bar in case of treason, must look to have more objected than he can answer, or any man is able to justify.  Dep. 
I confess and please your good Lordships.  Ro. 
Mark, he will confess.  Dep. 
That's the the way to be sent of a headless errand, indeed I confess that I never intended any treason to his highness, nor ever sought the PRINCE's life, true it is, that I heard of a conspiracy.  Ro. 
That that my Lord hath overthrown him, he sayeth he never sought the PRINCE's life, ergo he sought his death, beside he hath heard of treason, now he that heareth and discovereth not is equally guilty in fact: for in offences of this nature there are not accessaries, ergo he is a principal, and being a principal Traitor, he deserveth condemnation.  Dep. 
Shall I not speak?  Ro. 
No, traitors must not be suffered to speak, for when they have leave, they have liberty, and he that is a Traitor deserveth to be close Prisoner.  Dep. 
All that this fellow hath uttered, is false and forged, abominable lies.  Ro. 
I will speak truth, and I will be heard, and no man else in this place.  Dep. 
I never dreamt of a hunting saddle, nor never had so much as a thought of any prayer book.  Ro. 
You sit hear to do justice, I speak for the Duke and the safety of the common wealth.  Dep. 
As for pistols, 'tis well known I could never endure the report one 'em, I defy powder and shot as I do him that accuseth me.  Ro. 
I defy all the world that will hear a Traitor speak, for himself, 'tis against the Law which provides that no man shall defend treason, and he that speaks for himself being a Traitor, doth defend his treason, thou art a Capital obstreperous malefactor.  Dep. 
Thou art a madman:  Ro. 
Go to you have played the fool too much.  Dep. 
Thou continual motion cease, a pox upon thee hold thy tongue.  Ro. 
The pox won't serve your turn.  Dep. 
Why then this shall.  Beates him. Ro. 
Hold, hold good my Lord, I am sensible, I ha' done, imagine I ha' done, I but obeyed your Lordship, whose baton I find stronger than my imagination, my Lord you will answer this to strike i'th' Court thus?  Dep. 
I Am as weary— hark Rogero one knocks, see, see there's to make thee amends see good  Knocks Rogero, 
and say nothing pray heaven it be no pursuivant.  Enter Petruchio with a Letter. Ro. 
Petruchio my Lord, Pisano's Secretary.  Dep. 
But Lorenzo's Engine a very knave,  Pet. 
My very good Lord.  Dep. 
What's here? it can be no goodness:  Reads. My Lord I would not have you go to bed tonight, he won't let me sleep now, I dreamt as much, something will be done to give Florence liberty: In the depth of night you may cunningly disperse some rumours in the City, that the Duke is dead, the people must be distracted, in the common fright be not you wanting in your person to assist their fears, and speak well of Lorenzo, speak well of the devil: my humble service to your Lord, and say he has power to command me in all things. Pet. 
My very good Lord.  Dep. 
No matter and you were both hanged, Rogero, show him the Wine-cellar: let me see, I must report the Duke's death, I cannot abide this word Death, yet he desires me but to report it, hum, if it be false, why so much the better; there will be the less harm in't, if it should prove true, they will believe me another time: Well I will drink myself half drunk, and be fortified.  Exeunt. Enter Duke, Amidea, Lorenzo, Sciarrha, Florio, &c. Du. 

Sciarrha, you exceed in entertainment,  
Banquet our y●s too.   Lo. 
He will feast all Senses.  Sci. 

Only a toy my Lord, I cannot call't,  
A mask, not worthy of this presence, yet  
It speaks the freedom of my heart, and gratitude  
For this great honour.   Du. 
Amidea must sit near us.  Sci. 

Lords your places, 'twon't be  
Worth half this ceremony, let'em begin.   Enter Lust richly apparelled, the pleasures attending. Du. 
Whose the presenter?  Sci. 
Lust sir, pray observe:  Lust. 

Now let Lust possess the throne  
Of Love, and rule in hearts alone:  
You sweet tempters to my Sin,  
Beauty, smiles, and kisses win  
Upon frail mortals, let them know  
There is no happiness, but you  
Shoot no arrows tipped with lead  
Each shaft have his golden head:  
Call no Love, delude men still,  
Through the flesh, their spirits kill,  
Nor spend all your art to take  
Common persons, greatness make  
By your potent charms to be  
Subjects unto hell and me,  
Inflame but Kings with loose desire,  
Ye soon set all the world on fire.   Enter a young man in rich habit and Crowned. Du. 
What's he?  Sci. 

A wild young man that follows lust,  
He has too much blood it seems.   Du. 
Why looks he back?  Sci. 

There is a thing called death that follows him  
With a large train of furies, but the sirens  
Of lust make him secure, and now the hag  
Embraces him, and circles him with pleasures,  
The harpies mean to dance too, hang his conscience  
It whines too much.   Lo. 
This is too plain.  Sci. 

He does not tremble yet,  
By an by sir you shall see all his tormentors  
Join with 'em, there's the sport on't.   Lo. 

methinks they  
Should have been first forth 'antimasque.   Lo. 

Oh no!  
In hell they do not stand upon the method  
As we at Court, the ground mask and the glory  
Begin the revels, Sister you do ill  
To keep the Duke in talk, he cannot see  
The devil for you, and the whips: does not  
That death's head look most temptingly? the worms  
Have kissed the lips off. The furies join in the dance, and in the end carries the young man away.  
How does your highness like this dance?   Du. 

My eyes so feasted here, I did not mark it,  
But I presume 'twas handsome.   Sci. 

Oh the Lethargy  
Of Princes! we ha' kept you Sir from bed:  
More lights.   Du. 

Good night to all, to you the best:  
Sciarrha bind us ever by performance.   Sci. 
We are all yours.  Du. 

And Florence thine, once more—  
Brightest of Ladies.   Lo. 
You are firm.  Sci. 
Suspect not.  Exeunt all, but Amidea and Florio. Flo. 

I do not like my brother's Moral Mask,  
The Duke himself was personated, I  
Wonder it did not startle him.   Am. 

I hope  
Sciarrha does not mean so ill as that  
Did promise, he's returned: his looks are full. Enter Sciarrha.  
Of threatening.   Sci. 

Amidea, go not to bed,  
And yet no matter, I can do't alone:  
Take both your rest, and in your prayers commend  
The Duke to Heaven, 'tis charity; has made  
His will already, and bequeathed his body  
To you Sister, pity his soul for't, 'tis now  
Within few minutes of departing.   Am. 
How?  Sci. 

Why this way I must help him in his groans  
To bring his flesh a-bed.   Am. 
You won't kill him?  Sci. 
I am not of your mind.  Am. 
I know you cannot.  Sci. 

You are not studied so perfect in  
His destiny I hope; I will endeavour—   Am. 
To kill your Prince?  Flo. 
What here?  Sci. 
No, in his Chamber.  Am. 

Shall it be read in Stories of our Florence,  
Sciarrha first did stain his family  
With such a Treason?   Flo. 
Was he not invited?  Sci. 
Yes, by his lust.  Flo. 

And in your crowned tables,  
And Hospitality will you murder him?   Sci. 

Yes, and the reason wherefore he was murdered,  
Shall justify the deed to all posterity,  
He came to wrong my Sister.   Flo. 

Wanton heat,  
Let youthful blood excuse him.   Sci. 
So it must.  Flo. 

Mistake me not, oh think but who he is,  
The Duke, that word must needs awake your piety.   Am. 

How will good men in this remembrance  
Abhor your cruelty, that send to hell  
One with the weight of all his sins upon him.   Sci. 

It is too late to cool with argument  
My incensed blood, will you go dally with him,  
And let him board your pinnace: I ha' gone  
So far in promise, if you clasp not with him,  
It will be dangerous if he outlive  
This night.   Am. 
I ha' thought on't, send him to my bed.  Sc. 
Ha?  Am. 

Do not question what I purpose, heaven  
Witness to my chaste thoughts.   Sci. 
Wot thou trust him?  Am. 

I will do much sir, to preserve his life,  
And your innocence: be not you suspectful  
At the worst, you can but respite your revenge.   Sci. 

Dost thou not fear unhappy Luenesse chance,  
Or wretched Philomel's dishonour?   Am. 

No:  
Give me his life, and send your wanton to me;  
I'll to my Chamber, fear me not Sciarrha,  
Have not one thought so bad, I sha' not prosper;  
Virgins in heaven will suffer with me.   Exit Am. & Flo. Flo. 
Trust her?  Sci. 

'tis but deferring of my justice,  
She won't kill him sure: draw on her soul  
The guilt she hates in mine, if she do yield  
To the hot encounter: ha? 'twill be just,  
That both their hearts weep blood, to purge their lust.   Exit. Enter Florio and Amidea. Flo. 
My poniard?  Ami. 

I've no black intent  
To stain't with any blood.   Flo. 

Take it, I know, thou art my virtuous Sister,  
It were wickedness to doubt thy purpose  
Or the event.   Ami. 
Now leave me.  Flo. 
Thou hast a guard of Angels.  Ami. 
They are coming.  Enter Sciarrlia & Duke. Sci. 
Look, there she is sir, you know how to undress her.  Du. 
Dearest Sciarrha.  Sci. 

To your recreation, here  
I'll obscure myself, Florio? 'tis well.   Withdraws behind the hangings. Du. 
Lady you know me?  Am. 
Yes my Prince.  Du. 

I was so,  
Till I saw thee, but I gave up that title,  
A conquest to thy beauty, which among  
Her other wonders hath created me  
A subject and servant, and I shall  
Be happier to be received yours by  
One of those names then Duke of Tuscany.   Am. 

Oh take yourself again, use your greatness  
To make the hearts of Florence bow to you,  
And pay their duties thus.   Du. 

Rise Amidea,  
And since you have given my power back, it will  
Become me to command.   Am. 
And me to obey.  Du. 

I see thy noble brother hath been faithful  
To my desires, he has prepared thee with  
A story of my love, which thou rewardst  
With too much humbleness: thou hast a quarrel,  
And a just one with thy Stars, that did not make thee  
A Princess Amidea, yet thouart greater,  
And borne to justify unto these times  
A Queen of Love, Venus was but thy figure,  
And all her graces prophecies of thine,  
To make our last age best; I could dwell ever  
Here, and imagine I am in a Temple,  
To offer on this Altar of thy lip, Kisses her often.  
Myriads of flaming kisses with a cloud  
Of sighs breathed from my heart,  
Which by the oblation would increase his stock,  
To make my pay eternal.   Am. 
What mean you?  Du. 

That question is propounded timely, hadst  
Not interrupted me, I should ha' lost  
myself upon thy lips, and quite forgot  
There is a bliss beyond it, which I came for:  
Let others satisfy themselves to read  
The wonders in thy face, make proud their eye,  
By seeing thine, turn statues at thy voice,  
And think they never fix enough to hear thee.  
A man half dead with famine, would wish here  
To feed on smiles, of which the least hath power  
To call an Anchorite from his prayers, tempt Saints  
To wish their bodies on, thou dost with ease  
Captivate Kings with every beam, and mayst  
Lead them like prisoners round about the world,  
proud of such golden chains; this were enough,  
Had not my Fate provided more, to make me  
Believe myself immortal in thy touches,  
Come to thy bed, transform me there to happiness;  
I'll laugh at all the fables of the gods,  
And teach our Poets after I know thee,  
To write the true Elysium.   Am. 

Good my Lord,  
I understand you not, and yet I fear  
You do not mean well, if you have brought with you  
A sinful purpose which I may suspect.   Du. 

Why Lady, what do yond imagine I  
Came hither for?   Am. 
I know not.  Du. 

How? is't come to that?  
Your brother gave you more.  
Desirous of the sport, and brought me hither  
Ripe for your dalliance, did you not expect me?   Am. 
Yes.  Du. 
And to what other purpose?  Am. 
To tell you that you are not virtuous.  Du. 
I'm of your mind.  Am. 

But I am not so wicked  
To be of yours: oh think but who you are,  
Your title speaks you nearest heaven, and points  
You out a glorious reign among the Angels,  
Do not depose yourself of one, and be  
Of the other disinherited.   Du. 

I would  
Your brother heard you, prithee do not waste  
This tedious divinity, I am  
Resolved to grapple with you.   Am. 
Keep off.  Shows the poniard. Du. 

Ha?  
Turned Amazon.   Am. 

Prince, come not too near me.  
For by my honour, since you have lost your own,  
Although I bow in duty to your person,  
I hate your black thoughts, tempt not my just hand  
With violent approach, I dare, and will  
Do that will grieve you, if you have a soul.   Du. 
Thou dar'st not kill me.  Am. 
True, but I dare die.  Du. 
be thy own murderer?  Am. 
Rather than you should be my ravisher.  Du. 

Thou canst not be so merciless, useless sin  
To be unchaste, I am thy Prince, I prithee  
Throw by that cruel weapon, let our war  
De soft embraces, shooting amorous smiles,  
Kill and restore each other with a kiss,  
I know thou canst not be unkind so long,  
Than I command thee.   Am 

I must not obey  
To be your strumpet, though my hand be unskilful,  
I shall soon find my heart.   Du. 
I'll not believe—  Am. 

Let this deserve your faith, I dare be just, She wounds her arm.  
This crimson river issuing from my arm.   Du. 
Hold.  Am. 

Never, it shall flow, and if this channel  
Yield not enough, I'll strike another vein,  
And after that another, and not pity  
The murmuring stream, till through a prodigal wound  
I have drained the fountain: this doth weep for you,  
And shall extol my death, if it may teach  
You to correct your blood.   Du. 

There's so much gone  
From me I cool apace; this action  
Hath shot an ague through me; Amidea,  
Pity thyself.   Am. 

Not, till you swear repentance;  
I do not faint yet, 'tis somewhat about,  
But I can find a nearer way, this does it.   Du. 

Contain, I am sorry, sorry from my soul,  
Trust me, I do bleed inward, Amidea  
Can answer all thy drops: oh pardon me,  
Thou faintest already, dost not? I am fearful,  
The Phoenix with her wings, when she is dying  
Can fan her ashes into another life:  
But when they breathe more sweet than all the spice  
That helps the other's funeral, returns  
To heaven, the world must be eternal looser:  
Look to thy wound.   Am. 
May I believe you sir?  Du. 

I dare not think awry, again I ask  
Forgiveness, in thy innocence I see  
My own deformity.   Enter Sciarrha, hastily embraceth Amidea, Enter Florio. Sci. 

Now a thousand blessings  
Reward thy goodness; thou deservest a statue,  
A tall one which should reach above the clouds.  
Justle the moon, that people afar off  
Beholding it, may be invited hither  
In hope to climb to heaven by't, but apply  
Betimes unto thy wound; Florio assist her. Ex. Am. & Flo.  
And now my Lord—   Du. 

Sciarrah I'll begin to be thy Lord,  
I brought intentions of dishonour to thee,  
And thy fair sister, but I am reconciled  
To virtue, and will study how to satisfy  
For you and Florence.   Sci. 

You will be more precious,  
Then had you never fallen, I am all joy  
in your conversion.   Sci. 

Lorenzo? I think he has not said his prayers yet,  
But—   Du. 
What?  Sci. 
I cannot tell, may be, he does not use it.  Du. 
How?  Sci. 

My Lord, you now are lovely,  
'twere better you'd forget him, he's not right  
At heart I fear.   Du. 
Fear nothing.  Sci. 

To be plain,  
You cherish your disease in him, and are  
Not safe while he is near you.   Du. 
Do not envy him.  Sci. 

Then I must tell you sir he is a Traitor,  
Within my knowledge hath conspired your death.   Du. 
With whom?  Sci. 

With me, I should ha' killed you sir  
This night, and every minute he expects  
To hear you numbered with the dead, I can  
Demonstrate this, your pardon, but in truth,  
The injuries you meant us were severe,  
And he with as much violence did urge 'em  
To your destruction, but your piety  
Hath charmed my purpose, and I look upon you  
With new obedience.   Enter Florio. Du. 
Possible.  Sci. 

we won't shift the scene till you believe it,  
Florio, entreat my Lord Lorenzo hither,  
Step but but behind the arras, and your ear  
Shall tell you who's the greatest Traitor living,  
Observe but when I tell him, you are slain,  
How he'll rejoice, and call me Florence great  
Preserver, bless my arm that in your blood,  
Hath given our groaning state a liberty:  
Then trust Sciarrha, but observe, I here 'em   Enter Lorenzo. Lo. 
Whom talked he too?  Sci. 
'tis done—  Lo. 
What good Sciarrha?  Sci. 
The Duke is dead.  Lo. 

we are not left so miserable,  
Heaven is more kind to Florence.   Sci. 

With this hand  
I made a passage for his soul.   Lo. 

Defend  
Omnipotence, what murdered? and by noble  
Sciarrha? how my ear abuses me!   Sci. 
Did not we plot it too?  Lo. 

How we? collect,  
I fear you are not well: pray tell me why  
You talk thus? where's the Duke? he hath a guard,  
An army of heaven about him; who in Florence,  
Dares be so black a devil to attempt  
His death.   Sci. 

This is fine cunning, why that devil is  
Lorenzo, if he dares deny it, we are in private,  
You need appear no stranger to that's done  
By your direction.   Lo. 

I in the practice?  
Then let me creep into the earth, and rise  
A monster to affright mankind, Sciarrha,  
I must abhor thee for it, oh my Prince!  
My dearest kinsman, may thy hand rot off,  
Treason, treason.   Sci. 

Then my sword shall fetch As they draw, the Duke interposes.  
another witness in thy heart   Du. 
Hold.  Lo. 

Tush, let him come,  
My royal Lord, nay, let him kill me now,  
I've so much joy and peace about me, 'twere  
A sin to wish my life beyond this minute.   Du. 
Put up I say.  Sci. 

My Lord, we are both cozened:  
That very smile's a Traitor.   Du. 

Come, be calm:  
You are too passionate Sciarrha, and  
Mistook Lorenzo.   Lo. 

But I hold him noble:  
I see he made this trial of my faith,  
And I forgive him.   Du. 
Ye shall be friends, you shall I say.  Enter Cosmo and Alonzo. Cos. 
The Duke—  Alon. 
Where's the Duke?  Cos. 

My Lord, we are blessed to see you safe, report  
Hath frighted all the City with your death:  
People forsake their beds, and seeking how  
To be informed, increase the wretched tumult.   Alon. 

There's nothing but confusion: all men tremble  
As if some general fire invaded Florence.   Sci. 
Have comfort sir.  Du. 
What's to be done?  Lo. 

Depazzi has remembered,  
My Lord there is no safety for the State,  
Unless you personally appease 'em.   Du. 
How?  Lo. 
I hope they'll tear him, would he were dead any way.  Alon. 
He hath counselled well.  Cos. 
Your presence only hath the power to charm 'em.  Du. 

I fear their rage: where is our Guard?  
Alonzo, haste afore, proclaim our pardon,  
And that we live to give the offender's mercy.  
Why are we borne to greatness, mocked with State,  
When every tumult staggers our proud fate?   Sci. 
Our quarrel is deferred Sir.  Exeunt.  

ACTVS QVARTVS.  Enter Lorenzo. 

MY plots thrive not, my Engines all deceive me;  
And in the very point of their discharge  
Recoil with danger to myself: are there  
No faithful villains left in nature? all  
Turned honest? man nor spirit aid Lorenzo,  
Who hath not patience to expect his fate:  
But must compel it? how Sciarrha played  
The dog-bolt wi'me, and had not I provided  
in wisdom for him, that distress had ruined me,  
His frozen Sister Amidea too  
Hath half converted him; but I must set  
New wheels in motion, to make him yet  
More hateful, and then cut him from his stalk,  
Ripe for my vengeance: I'll not trust the rabble  
Confusion on the giddy multitude,  
That but two minutes ere the Duke came at'em,  
Bellowed out liberty, shook the City with  
Their throats, no sooner saw him but they melted  
With the hot apprehension of a gallows:  
And when a pardon was proclaimed, (a fine  
State-snaffle for such Mules) they turned their cry  
To acclamations, and deafed Heaven to beg  
His long and prosperous reign, a sudden rot  
Consume this base herd, and the devil want,  
Any Cattle for his own teeth, these are for him.   Enter a Servant. Ser. 
Sciarrha, my Lord desires to speak with you.  Lo. 

Sciarrha, come near— you understand, admit him. Exit. Ser.  
Welcome my noble Lord, Enter Sciarrha.  
You were not wont to visit me.   Sci. 
Nor mean ever to do't again.  Lo. 

You bring frowns,  
I can be sullen too: what is your pleasure?   Sci. 
You have abused me.  Lo. 
You have injured me.  Sci. 
in what?  Lo. 
Betrayed me basely to the Duke.  Sci. 
You denied then, you were a Traitor.  Lo. 

Yes, I was no fool to run my neck upon  
The Axe, and give you such a cause of triumph,  
Were it again in question—   Sci. 

Y'are a villain sir.  
And I must have it certified under your own hand  
To show the Duke.   Lo. 

You shall be humbled to  
Confess the contrary, nay subscribe  
That I am honest, and desire my pardon;  
Look, I have a sword, and arm, and vigour  
Dare fight with thee, didst ride upon a whirlwind,  
Provoke me on a rock, in waves, in fire?  
And kill thee without scruple, such a strength  
Is innocence.   Sci. 

Innocence? dost not fear a thunderbolt?  
I shall be charitable to the world, and I  
Cut thee in pieces; and yet then I fear  
Thou wilt come together again: the devil does  
Acknowledge thee on earth the greater mischief,  
And has a fear when thou art dead, he sha'not  
Be safe in hell: thou wot conspire with some  
Of his black fiends, and get his kingdom from him:  
Didst not thou rail upon the Duke?   Lo. 
I grant it.  Sci. 
Call him a Tyrant?  Lo. 

More I do confess,  
I did exasperate you, to kill or murder him;  
Give it what name you please, with joy I brought him  
Under the colour of your guest, to be  
The common sacrifice: all this I remember;  
But is heaven's stock of mercy spent already,  
That sins though great and horrid, may not be  
Forgiven, to the heart that groans with penitence?  
Are the eternal fountains quite sealed up?  
I was a Villain, Traitor, Murderer,  
In my consenting to his death, but hope  
Those stains are now washed off.   Sci. 
Hast thou repented?  Lo. 
Trust me, I have.  Sci. 
The devil is turned religious, augment not thy damnation.  Lo. 

As he was  
A lustful Duke, a Tyrant, I had lost him  
In his return to piety: he commanded  
My prayers, and fresh obedience to wait on him;  
he's now my Prince again.   Sci. 
This is but cunning to save your life.  Enter divers gentlemen armed. Lo. 
My life? within there, ha? welcome.  1 
My gracious Lord.  2 

willt please your honour  
Command my service?   3 
Or me?  4 
Or any?  5 
Our swords and lives are yours.  Sci. 

Perhaps your Lordship hath some business  
With these Gentlemen, I'll take some other time.   Lo. 

By no means good Sciarrha:  
You visit seldom, those are daily with me,  
Men that expect employment, that wear swords,  
And carry spirits, both to be engaged,  
If I but name a cause: Gentlemen, draw.   Sci. 
My providence has betrayed me.  Lo. 

Now Sciarrha, you that with single valour dare come home  
To affront me thus; know; but too late, thy heart  
Is at the mercy of my breath: these swords  
Can fetch it when I please, and to prevent  
Your boast of this great daring: I beseech  
As you do love and honour your Lorenzo,  
No hand advance a weapon, sheath again,  
And leave us; I owe service to your loves;  
But must not so dishonour you.   All gentl. 
We obey.  Exeunt Gentlemen. Sci. 
They're gone: this is some nobleness.  Lo. 

You see  
I do not fear your sword; alone I have  
Too much advantage, yet you may imagine  
How easily I could correct this rashness:  
But in my fear to offend gracious Heaven  
With a new crime, having so late obtained  
My peace, I give you freedom.   Sci. 
Do I dream?  Lo. 

Pray chide me still, I will be patient  
To hear my shame.   Sci. 

Is this to be believed?  
Doth not Lorenzo counterfeit this virtue?  
He does? it is impossible he should repent.   Lo. 

Why tell me Sciarrha, and let us argue a while  
In cooler blood; did not you once resolve  
To kill the Duke too?   Sci. 
I confess—  Lo. 

To give him death with your own hand?  
Methinks it should be the same parricide  
In you, if not a greater; yet you change  
Your purpose, why did you not go through  
And murder him?   Sci. 
He was converted.  Lo. 

Good, that taught you mercy, & perhaps repentance  
For your intent.   Sci. 
It did.  Lo. 

Why should not sir  
The same conversion of the Duke possess  
My heart, with as much piety to him  
And sorrow for myself? if I should say  
You are but cunning, is this shape of honesty,  
And still suspect your soul to be a Traitor?  
Might you not blame my want of charity?   Sci. 

He says but right, we are  
Both men, frail things: 'tis not impossible.   Lo. 

I am reconciled to heaven already, and the Duke, if you  
Be still unsatisfied, I am ready sin.   Sci. 

The circumstance considered, I incline  
To think this may be honest.   Lo. 

Come Sciarrha,  
We are both hasty: pardon my rash language  
In the beginning, I will study service  
Shall make you love me: I ha' been too wicked,  
Too full of passion, inexorable:  
My nature is corrected, at this minute:  
I'm friends with all the world, but in your love  
Shall number many blessing.   Sci. 
I am converted.  Enter Petruchio. Lo. 
What's the news?  Pet. 

My Lord Depazzi prays some conference  
In the next chamber we arrived by chance  
Together at your gate: I do not like his talk sir.   Lo. 

Hang him property, let him  
Expect, thou art come i'the opportunity:  
I could have wished, be wise and second me.   Sci. 

He waits upon Pisano,  
Whose health I may inquire, I ha' not seen him  
Since he departed sick, a fit occasion.   Lo. 

Married to Oriana: thou mistak'st,  
'tis Amidea, Lord Sciarrha's sister.   Pet. 

That contract's broken, and the old Lady  
Morrossa is violent to have the marriage  
Finished with her daughter.   Lo. 

Sciarrha,  
is't true Pisano marries Oriana  
The rich Morassa's daughter.   Sci. 
Ha?  Lo. 

we did expect to hear your sister should  
Have been his bride: has he forsaken Amidea?   Sci. 
Do not you serve Pisano?  Pet. 
Yes my Lord.  Sci. 

And dare you talk he's to be married  
To Oriana?   Pet. 

If they live till tomorrow:  
there's great provision to my knowledge and—   Sci. 
Take that, & learn to speak a truth hereafter.  Lo. 

That blow shall cost his life,  
It is not possible he dares affront  
You thus; the world takes notice of a contract,  
he's much to blame if he should wrong so sweet  
A Lady as Amidea, now by Hymen.  
'tis not so honourable he need not scorn,  
Such an alliance.   Pet. 

I am not to give  
Account for my Lords actions, let him answer  
And justify his honour: but my Lord  
Since I am provoked, I must declare he has  
Called back his vows to Amidea, given  
Her freedom, and does mean to use his own,  
And this he dares publish.   Lo. 
What, disclaimed a Lady of her birth and glorious merit?  Sci. 
thouart a villain,  Lo 

My Lord he is not worth your anger, he  
Declares but what his master hath committed,  
'tis none of his fault.   Pet. 

It becomes my duty  
To take correction my Lord, from you,  
I am a servant, a poor gentleman.   Sci. 
Shall I suspect the circumstance at his departure?  Lo. 
It is strange you knew not this before.  Sci. 
I must examine if he dares—  Lo. 
Be patient.  Sci. 

Teach fools and children patience,  
The dogs eat up Sciarrha; let me live  
The prodigy of sorrow, die a death  
That may draw tears from Scythians, if Pisano  
Lead o'er his threshold, any soon won dame  
To be my sister's shame: I am calm now;  
One false, heaven why should thy altars save?  
'tis just that Hymen light him to his grave.   Exit Lo. 

A thousand furies swell his rage, although  
Pisano bleed, this is the safest killing;  
Wisemen secure their fates and execute  
Invisibly, like that most subtle flame  
That burns the heart, yet leaves no path or touch  
Upon the skin to follow or suspect it:  
Farewell dull passionate fool, how this doth feed me?  
Kill and be lost thyself; or if his sword  
Conclude thy life both ways I am revenged.  
Petruchio, thou didst hit my instructions rarely,  
And I applaud thee': now send in Depazzi, and visit me anon.   Pet. 
I shall my Lord.  Exit. Lo. 

Some Politician  
That is not wise, but by a precedent,  
Would think me weak for using such an instrument,  
As this Depazzi; but I know by proof,  
Such men whom fear and honour make our creatures,  
Do prove safe Engines, fools will still obey,  
When cunning knaves our confidence betray.   Enter Depazzy and Rogero. Dep. 
My Lord, I would speak a word or two in private.  Lo. 
You may.  Dep. 
Is nobody within hearing? all clear behind the arras?  Lo. 
Make no doubt sir.  Dep. 
My Lord the truth is, I am very fearful: is your Lordship sure there are no eaves droppers.  Lo. 
What needs this circumstance? I pray come to the point.  Dep. 
'tis not unknown to your Lordship, that you have been my very good Lord, neither am I ignorant, that I am your humble servant, you advanced men, brought me into the number of the nobles, and I brought you a reasonable number of crowns: I am not the first wise Citizen that hath been converted into a foolish Courtier, but my Lord, I beseech you pardon me: it will out.  Lo. 
What's the matter?  Dep. 
I am ready to burst.  Lo. 
With what?  Dep. 
Treason, treason, now 'tis out, and I feel my body the lighter for't already: the last plot did not take you see, and I would humbly entreat your Lordship to excuse me, and get somebody else hereafter to be your Traitor in my stead.  Lo. 
How sir?  Dep. 
If you did but know the tenderness of my constitution, or feel the pangs and convulsions that I suffer, you would pity me: I fall away you see, I cannot sleep for dreaming of an axe, I have caused, my hangings of Holofernes to be taken down in my dining room, because I dare not look upon a head that is cut off in it, something of my complexion: my wisdom tells me I am a fool to be so fearful, but my conscience tells me I am a greater fool if I ha' not wit enough in my pare to keep my head on my shoulders, I beseech your Lordship take me into your consideration, I am but a mortal, though I be a Lord, every man hath not the like gift of impudence, I have a weak stomach, and treason is physic to me, and although I do not vomit up your secrets they may out some other way.  Lo. 
You won't betray me.  Dep. 
But alas in such a case I may soon bewray myself, and then your Lordship may soon be smelled out: to prevent therefore some mischief that may happen, I desire to leave off while I am well, end that your Lordship may know I mean plainly: I ha' brought you all your letters, I durst not trust any other place with 'em for fear of state rats, I have unripped my bosom to you, and there they are to a title— now I may safely swear I have no hand with your Lordship.  Lo. 
This is very strange.  Dep. 
Mistake not my good Lord, I am still your creature, but I have a great mind to be honest a little while, among the weaker sort of nobility: yet thus much persuade yourself, I will ne'er wrong your Lordship in a syllable, should you tell me of a thousand treasons, and stratagems, I will never reveal any, I scorn that, but your Lordship must pardon me, I will be a Traitor no longer, that's certain, I will be honest, and the rather because nobody shall hit me in the teeth after I am dead, and say look were Depazzi carries his head very high, and my Lord the more to induce your Lordship to dismiss me— Rogero.  Ro. 
My Lord.  Dep. 
Give me the gold, I have brought 1500 crowns more.  Lo. 
Wherefore?  Dep. 
That I may have my Lordship's good will, to leave my office before it be taken from me, and preferred to a worse, 'tis half the price I paid for't, I love peace and a little honesty, I know your honour will find an able man for it, and it is fit I should pay for my quietus.  Lo. 
And what do you resolve?  Dep. 
To return to the dunghill from whence I came, for though I was borne in the City, I have some land in the country dirty acres, and Mansion house, where I will be the miracle of a courtier, and keep good hospitality, love my neighbours, and their wives, and consequently get their children, be admired amongst the Justices, sleep upon every bench, keep a Chaplain in my own house to be my idolater, and furnish me with jests; and when I have nothing else to do, I will think of the court, and how much I have been obliged to your Lordship: my Lord I may do you service with a leading voice in the country, the kennel will cry a my side if it come to election, you or your friend shall carry it, against the Common wealth.  Lo. 
Well sir, since you have expressed yourself so freely, I will not council you against your disposition to stay at court, you may go when, and whither you please; and though at parting I have nothing worth your acceptation, I will bestow these Crowns upon your servant.  Dep. 
Thou shalt give 'em me again.  Ro. 
Indeed my Lord I love a little honesty, 'tis his Lordship's bounty, it will be a stock to set me up, for myself at Court, when your Lordship is retired into the Country, I humbly thank your Lordship: and take my leave of yours.  Exit. Enter a servant Ser. 
The Duke my Lord.  Exit servant. Dep. 
How the Duke?  Du. 
Signior Depazzi.  Lo. 

He has been earnest with me, and please your highness  
To be his humble suitor, he may have  
Freedom to leave the Court.   Du. 
He shall be banished  Dep. 
How?  Lo. 
What time will your grace allow to provide?  Du. 
Two hours.  Dep. 

I had rather lose my head at home, and save charges  
Of travail, I beseech your grace.   Du. 
Well 'tis granted, let him not trouble us.  Lo. 
Enjoy the country, and return when the Duke sends for you.  Dep. 
I humbly thank his highness, and will pray for your increase of grace.  Exit. Du. 
Lorenzo, are we private?  Lo. 
Yes my Lord.  Du. 
I am very melancholy.  Lo. 
I know the cause, 'tis Amidea.  Du. 
Right.  Lo. 
I do not wish her dead.  Du. 
It were a sin.  Lo. 

Not in heaven sir, yet  
There be Ladies, that would think it a promotion.   Du. 

It were pity she should leave  
The world, till she hath taught by her example  
The nearest way   Lo. 
I am very confident she's yet honest.  Du. 
Yet Lorenzo?  Lo. 

ay sir, but I'm not of opinion it is  
Impossible to know a change.   Du. 
Take heed.  Lo. 

I must confess she has been very valiant,  
In making you remove your siege, and showed  
Pretty dexterity at the poniard,  
See herself bleed: but this a mortal Virgin  
Might do, and not be adored for't: other women  
Have gone as far, or else false Legends have  
Been thrust upon the easy world: some say  
There have been creatures that have killed themselves,  
To save their sullen chastities; but I  
Have no strong faith that way, yet you were startled  
To see her strike her arm, and grew compassionate.   Du. 

I was not Marble, we break Adamant  
With blood, and could I be a man, and not  
Be moved to see that hasty ebb be of life  
For my sake?   Lo. 

I have read some aged Stories:  
What think you of Lucrece? she is remembered.   Du. 
Chastities great example.  Lo. 

How the world  
Was cozened in her? she knew of Tarquin first,  
And then suspecting she should never meet  
Again the active Gentleman, having  
Determined of his death, with well dissembled  
Sorrow did stab herself, in hope to meet  
The gamester in Elysium, Amidea,  
You will allow beneath this Roman Dame.   Du. 

Lorenzo had the burning ravisher,  
Made this attempt on Amidea, she  
Would have compelled his penitence, to quench  
His fire with holy tears. I had a body  
Refined to air, or I was borne up by  
A thousand wings: methought I could have flown  
And kissed the cheek of Cynthia, thence with ease  
Have leapt to Venus' Star, but I was wounded,  
And the gay feathers, in whose pride I had  
My confidence, served now but with their weight  
To hasten me to earth.   Lo. 

Ascend again,  
And fix in your loved orb, he brings this comfort  
That can assure it, if you have not lost  
A heart to entertain with love and pleasure  
The beauteous Amidea.   Du. 
Ha?  Lo. 
You shall enjoy her.  Du. 

Enjoy fair Amidea? do not tempt,  
Or rather mock my frailty with such a promise.   Lo. 

Shake off your melancholy slumber, I  
Have here decreed you shall possess her: she  
Be sent submissive to your arms, and you  
Be gracious to accept what she made coy of.   Du. 
Is this in nature?  Lo. 

Thus: Sciarrha's life  
And fortunes are already growing forfeit  
These brains have plotted so: your mercy shall  
Purchase what you can wish, for, in his Sister  
And he acknowledge rifling of her honour,  
A fair and cheap redemption.   Du. 

Do this,  
And I'll repent the folly of my penitence,  
And take thee to my soul, a nearer pledge  
Than blood or nature gave me: I'm renewed,  
I feel my natural warmth return, when, where,  
Is this to be expected? I grow old,  
While our embraces are deferred.   Lo. 

I go, to hasten your delight, prepare your blood  
For amorous game: Sciarrha's fate is cast  
Firmer than destiny.   Du. 
Thou art my Prophet, I'll raise thee up an Altar.  Lo. 
Trust these brains.  Du. 
Thou mak'st my spirit caper in my veins.  Exit. Cosmo and two Gentlemen above. 1 Gen. 
This way they pass.  Cos. 
I would not see 'em.  2 Gen. 
Why?  1 Gen. 
What melancholy o'the sudden? it is now past cure.  Cos. 

I know it is, and therefore do not  
Desire to witness their solemnity, should Oriana  
See me today.   2 
What then?  Cos. 

The object  
I Fear would be too prodigious.   2 
We dispute not those nice formalities.  Enter Alonzo, Piero, Pisano, Oriana, Morossa, 1 
She has spied you already.  Cos. 
I am sorry for't.  Oriana faints. Mor. 
How is't my child?  Pis. 

My dearest Oriana,  
She faints, what grief is so unmannerly  
To interrupt thee now Oriana?   Mor. 
Daughter!  Pis. 

Will Heaven divorce us ere the Priest have made  
Our Marriage perfect? we in vain hereafter  
Shall hear him teach, that our Religion binds  
To have the church's ceremony, she returns.   Oria. 

Why were you so unkind to call me from  
A pleasing slumber? Death has a fine dwelling.   Pie. 

This shows her heart's not yet consenting, 'tis  
Her Mother's fierce command.   Ori. 
Something spoke to me from that window.  Pis. 
There is nothing.  Ori. 
Nothing now.  Pis. 
Set forward.  Alon. 

I do not like this interruption: 'tis  
Ominous.   Enter Amidea. Am. 

Not for my sake, but for your own, go back,  
Or take some other way, this leads to death  
My brother.   Pis. 
What of him?  Am. 

Transported with  
The fury of revenge for my dishonour,  
As he conceives; for 'tis against my will:  
Hath vowed to kill you in your Nuptial glory.  
Alas I fear his haste, now good my Lord,  
Have mercy on yourself, I do not beg  
Your pity upon me, I know too well  
You cannot love me now, nor would I rob  
This Virgin of your faith, since you have pleased  
To throw me from your love: I do not ask  
One smile, nor one poor kiss, every this maid  
Created for those blessings: but again,  
I would beseech you, cherish your own life,  
Though I be lost forever.   Alon. 

It is worth  
Your care my Lord, if there be any danger.   Pis. 

Alas her grief hath made her wild poor Lady:  
I should not love Oriana to go back,  
Set forward, Amidea, you may live  
To be a happier Bride: Sciarrha is not  
So irreligious to profane these rites.   Am. 

Will you not then believe me? pray persuade him,  
You are his friends. Lady, it will concern  
You most of all indeed: fear you'll weep  
To see him dead as well as J.   Pis. 

No more,  
Go forward.   Am. 

I have done, pray be not angry,  
That still I wish you well, may heaven divert  
All harms that threaten you, full blessings crown  
Your Marriage: I hope there is no sin in this;  
indeed I cannot choose but pray for you,  
This might have been my wedding-day.   Ori. 

Good Heaven  
I would it were, my heart can tell, I take  
No joy in being his bride, none in your prayers,  
You shall have my consent to have him still:  
I will resign my place, and wait on you,  
if you will marry him.   Am. 

Pray do not mock me,  
But if you do, I can forgive you too.   Ori. 

Dear Amidea, do not think I mock  
Your sorrow; by these tears that are not worn  
By every Virgin on her wedding day;  
I am compelled to give away myself:  
Your hearts were promised, but he ne'er had mine:  
Am not I wretched too?   Am. 

Alas poor Maid,  
We two keep sorrow alive then, but I prithee  
When thou art married, love him, prithee love him;  
For he esteems thee well, and once a day  
Give him a kiss for me, but do not tell him,  
'twas my desire, perhaps 'twill fetch a sigh  
From him, and I had rather break my heart,  
But one word more, and heaven be with you all,  
Since you have led the way, I hope my Lord  
That I am free to marry too.   Pis. 
Thou art.  Am. 

Let me beseech you then, to be so kind  
After your own solemnities are done,  
To grace my wedding, I shall be married shortly.   Pis 
To whom?  Am. 

To one whom you have all heard talk of,  
Your fathers knew him well: one, who will never  
Give cause I should suspect him to forsake me,  
A constant lover, one whose lips though cold  
Distil chaste kisses, though our bridal bed  
Be not adorned with roses, 'twill be green,  
We shall have Virgin Laurel Cypress, Ewe,  
To make us garlands, though no Pine do burn,  
Our nuptial shall have torches, and our chamber  
Shall be cut out of marble, where we'll sleep  
Free from all care for ever: death my Lord  
I hope shall be my husband, now farewell,  
Although no kiss, accept my parting tear,  
And give me leave to wear my willow here.   Exit. Enter Sciarrha, Lorenzo, aloof with a guard. Al. 
Sciarrha! then I prophesy—  Sci. 
Pisano, where's Pisano?  Pis. 

Here, Sciarrha.  
I should have answered with less clamor.   Sci. 

But I would not lose my voice, I must be heard,  
And does concern you, I profess no Augury,  
I have not quartered out the heavens, to take  
The flight of birds, nor by inspection  
Of entrails made a divination.  
But I must tell you, 'tis not safe to marry.   Pis. 
Why?  Sci. 

'twill be fatal, Hymen is gone abroad,  
And Venus, Lady of your nativity,  
Is found by wise Astrologers this day  
I'th' house of death.   Pis. 
This must not fright me sir, set forward.  Sci. 

One cold word you are a villain,  
I do not flatter.   Pis. 

I am patient:  
This day I consecrate to love, not anger;  
we'll meet some other time.   Sci. 

Deride my fury?  
Then to thy heart I send my own revenge Stabs him with a poniard.  
And Amidea's.   Pis. 
I am murdered.  Mor. 
Help, murder gentlemen, oh my unhappiness!  Enter Lorenzo with a guard. Pis. 
Bloody Sciarrha.  Lo. 
Hold.  Sci. 

Come all at once,  
Yet let me tell you, my revenge is perfect,  
And I would spare your blood, if you despise  
My charity—   Lo. 

No man attempt his death,  
I'll give yea reasons, this attempt deserves  
An exemplary justice.   Sci. 

I am above  
Your politic reach, and glory in the wound  
That punished our dishonour: is he dead?  
I would not be so miserable, not to ha' sped him  
For the Empire.   Enter Cosmo. Cos. 
Oh my friend, poor Oriana.  Lo. 

Disarm him:  
Return and comfort one another, some Exeunt all but Lorenzo, Sciar. & guard.  
Remove Pisano's body, while I make it  
My care Sciarrha scape not.   Sci. 
None of all give me a scratch?  Lo 
You have forced him with discretion.  Sci. 
Now what must I expect?  Lo. 
You are my prisoner.  Sci. 
I am so.  Lo. 
And be confident to find that favour.  Sci. 
Favour.  Lo. 

Be at distance, more  
My Lord, I am sorry for your great misfortune  
And if you can but study how I may  
Assist you, you shall soon discern my love  
My readiness to serve you.   Sci. 
Ha, this honest?  Lo. 

I would deserve your faith,  
A friend but in affliction justify  
His heart and honour, I durst run some hazard,  
Might I secure your fate, name something to me  
That may declare my friendship.   Sci. 

Be still safe,  
And teach the world repentance, for mistaking thee  
I pity not myself, but envy thy Heroic honours.   Lo. 

I will impose no more  
Restraint, than your own house, you're honourable:  
You have many severe enemies, the Duke  
Looked graciously upon Pisano, but—.   Sci. 

You sha'not lose the smallest beam of favour,  
To buy a man so desperate, I never  
Thought death the monster, that weak men have fancied,  
As foil to make us more in love with life,  
The devil's picture may affright poor fowls  
Into their Body's paleness, but the substance  
Too resolute: man's a shadow, and cold sweat  
Dare not approach his forehead, I am armed  
To die, and give example of that fortitude  
Shall shame the law's severity: my sister  
May now give back Pisano his false vows,  
To line his coffin, one tear shed on me's  
Enough, the justice I ha' done, shall make  
My memory beloved.   Lo. 

I ha' thought a way.  
To recover you, if you incline to't,  
Dare you consent?   Sci. 

To any thing that's noble,  
Although I never feared to suffer; I  
Am not so foolish to despise a life.   Lo. 

There is no difficulty attends it, listen,  
The time will not permit much circumstance:  
The Duke you know did love your sister.   Sci. 
Viciously.  Lo. 

Her Virtue did but cool him for the present,  
As sprinklings on a flame, he's now more passionate  
To enjoy her.   Sci. 
Ha?  Lo. 

If she consent to meet  
His soft embrace, with his first kiss, he seals  
Your pardon, than the act upon Pisano  
Appears a true revenge, when none dares question it:  
Beside addition of state and fortune,  
To you and Amidea, weigh your danger,  
And what a trifle she gives up, to save  
Your life, that never can be valued,  
Less recompensed; the Duke may be so taken  
With her return to his delight, who knows  
But he may marry her, and discharge his Duchess  
With a quaint salad, you do apprehend me.   Sci. 

And repent more, I had one good thought of thee,  
Than I had killed a thousand: save my life  
And prostitute my sister, though I have  
No weapon, I will look thee dead, or breathe  
A damp shall stifle thee, that I could vomit  
Consuming flames, or stones like Aetna, make  
The earth with motion of my feet shrink lower,  
And take thee in alive, oh that my voice  
Could call a Serpent from corrupted Nile,  
To make thee part of her accursed bowels,  
Is this noble friendship? readiness  
To save my life? let malice read all stories  
Famous for cruelty, awake dead Tyrants,  
Or be instructed by their ghosts with tortures,  
Such as will make a damned fury weep  
Only to see inflicted, I would bear'em,  
And weary my tormentors, ere consent  
In thought to thy temptation.   Lo. 

I ha' done,  
And praise your heathen resolution  
Of death, go practice immortality,  
And tell us when you can get leave to visit  
This world again, what fine things you enjoy  
In hell, for thither these rash passions drive thee,  
And ere thy body hath three days inhabited,  
A melancholy chamber in the earth,  
Hung round about with skulls and dead men's bones,  
Ere Amidea have told all her tears  
Upon thy Marble, or the Epitaph  
Belie thy soul, by saying it is fled  
To Heaven: this Sister shall be ravished,  
Maugre thy dust and Heraldry.   Sci. 

Ha, ravished?  
When I am dead, was't not so? oh my soul,  
I feel it weep within me, and the tears  
Soften my flesh: Lorenzo, I repent my fury.   Lo. 
I advised you the best way my wisdom could direct.  Sci. 

I thank you for't,  
You have awaked my reason, I am ashamed  
I was no sooner sensible: does the Duke  
Affect my Sister still say you?   Lo. 
Most passionately.  Sci. 

She shall obey him then, upon my life:  
That's it, my life; I know she loves me dearly.  
I shall have much ado to win her to't,  
But she shall come, I'll send her.   Lo. 
Perform this?  Sci. 

I won't only send her, but prepared  
Not to be disobedient to his Highness:  
He shall command her any thing.   Lo. 

Do this,  
And be for ever happy, when these have  
Only for form but waited on you home:  
This disengages'em.   Sci. 

My humblest service  
To the Duke I pray, and tell him, Amidea  
This night shall be at his dispose, by this.   Lo. 
I'm confident, farewell; attend Sciarrha.  Sci. 

Pity the Seaman, that to avoid a shelf,  
Must strike upon a rock to save himself.   Exeunt.  

ACTVS QVINTUS.  Enter Sciarrha and Amidea. Sci. 

THe doors are fast,  
Enough is wept already for Pisano:  
There's something else that must be thought on, and  
Of greater consequence: I am yet unsafe,  
That for thy sake am guilty of his blood.   Am. 

Though all my stock of tears were spent already  
Upon Pisano's loss, and that my brain  
Were bankrupt of moisture, and denied  
To lend my grief one drop more for his Funeral;  
Yet the remembrance that you have made  
A forfeit of your dear life  
Is able to create a weeping spring  
Within my barren head: oh my lost brother,  
Thou hast a cruel destiny, my eyes  
In pity of thy fate desire to drown thee.  
The Law will only seek thee upon land,  
Hid in my tears, thou shalt prevent the stroke  
Kills both our name and thee.   Sci. 

I know thou lov'st me  
Poor Girl. I shall desire to cherish life  
if thou lament me thus: so rich a comfort  
Will tempt me, wish I might delay my journey  
To Heaven.   Am. 
Good Heaven that we might go together.  Sci. 
That must not be.  Am. 
Then let me go before.  Sci. 
How?  Am. 

Make my suit unto the Prince, my blood  
May be your ransom; let me die, Sciarrha  
My life is fruitless unto all the world,  
The Duke in justice will not deny this:  
And though I weep in telling thee, I shall  
Smile on the Scaffold.   Sci. 

How my Honour blushes  
To hear thee Amidea? in this love  
Thou woundst me more, than thou desir'st to save:  
Suffer for me? why thou art innocent:  
I have provoked the punishment, and dare  
Obey it manly; if thou couldst redeem me  
With any thing but death, I think I should  
Consent to live, but I'd not have thee venture  
All at one chance.   Am. 

Nothing can be too precious  
To save a brother, such a loving brother  
As you have been.   Sci. 

Death's a devouring gamester,  
And sweeps up all: what thinkst thou of an eye?  
Couldst thou spare one, and think the blemish recompensed,  
To see me safe with tother; or a hand,  
This white hand, that hath so often  
With admiration trembled on the Lute,  
Till we have prayed thee leave the strings awhile,  
And laid our ears close to thy Ivory fingers,  
Suspecting all the Harmony proceeded  
From their own motion, without the need  
Of any dull or passive instrument.  
No Amidea, shalt not bear one scar  
To buy my life: the sickle shall not touch  
A flower that grows so fair upon his stalk:  
Thy other hand will miss a white companion,  
And wither on thy arm; what then can I  
Expect from thee to save me? I would live  
And owe my life to thee, so 'twere not bought  
Too dear.   Am. 

Do you believe I should not find  
The way to Heaven: were both mine eyes thy ransom,  
I shall climb up those high and rugged cliffs  
Without a hand.   Sci. 

One way there is, if thou  
Dost love with that tenderness.   Am. 

Pronounce it,  
And let no danger that attends, incline you  
To make a pause.   Sci. 
The Duke thou know'st did love thee.  Am. 
Hi?  Sci. 

Nay do not start already, nor mistake me;  
I do not as before, make trial of thee,  
Whether thou canst, laying aside thy honour,  
Meet his lascivious arms but by this virtue  
I must beseech thee to for go it all,  
And turn a sinful woman.   Am. 
Bless me!  Sci. 

I know the kingdoms of the world contain not  
Riches enough to tempt thee to a fall  
That will so much undo thee: but I am  
Thy brother, dying brother; if thou lov'st  
Him therefore, that for thee hath done so much;  
Died his pale hands in blood to revenge thee,  
And in that murder wounded his own soul  
Almost to death, consent to lose thy innocence:  
I know it makes thee grieve, but I shall live  
To love thee better for it: we'll repent  
Together for our sins, and pray and weep  
Till Heaven hath pardoned all.   Am. 
Oh never, never.  Sci. 

Do but repeat thy words, to save my life,  
And that will teach compassion: my life,  
Our shame, the stain of all our family,  
Which will succeed in my ignoble death,  
Thou washest off.   Am. 
But stain myself for ever.  Sci. 

Where? in thy face, who shall behold one blemish,  
Or one not more in thy whole frame, thy beauty  
Will be the very same, thy speech, thy person  
Wear no deformity.   Am. 

Oh do not speak  
So like a rebel to all modesty,  
To all Religion, if these arguments  
Spring from your jealousy that I am fall'n,  
After a proof you did so late applaud.   Sci. 

I had not killed Pisano then: I am now  
More spotted than the Marble, than my head  
Did owe no forfeiture to Law:  
It does ache now, than I but tried thy virtue.  
Now my condition calls for mercy to thee,  
Though to thyself thou appear cruel for't:  
Come we may live both if you please.   Am. 

I must never  
Buy my poor breath at such a rate, who has  
Made you afraid to die: I pity you,  
And wish myself in any noble cause  
Your Leader, when our souls shall leave this dwelling,  
The glory of one fair, and virtuous action  
Is above all the scutcheons on our tomb,  
Or silken banners over us.   Sci. 

So valiant,  
I will not interpose another syllable  
To entreat your pity say your prayers, and then  
thou'rt ripe to be translated from the earth,  
To make a cherubin.   Am. 
What means my brother?  Sci. 
To kill you.  Am. 
Do not fright me good Sciarrha.  Sci. 
And I allow three minutes for your devotion.  Am. 
Will you murder me?  Sci. 
D''ee tremble?  Am. 

Not at the terror of your sword,  
But at the horror will affright thy soul,  
For this black deed: I see Pisano's blood  
Is texted in thy forehead, and thy hands  
Retain too many, too many crimson spots already  
Make not thyself, by furthering of thy sister  
All a red letter,   Sci. 
You shall be the martyr.  Am. 

Yet stay, is there no remedy but death,  
And from your hand? then keep your word, & let me  
Use one short prayer.   Sci. 
I shall relent.  Am. 

Forgive me heaven, and, witness I have still Kneels.  
My Virgin thoughts, 'tis not to save my life,  
But his eternal one.  
Sciarrha give me leave to veil my face, Rises.  
I dare not look upon you and pronounce,  
I am too much a sister, live, hereafter  
I know you will condemn my frailty for it.  
I will obey the Duke.   Sci. 
dar'st thou consent.  Wounds her. Am. 

Oh let me see the wound She unvails.  
'tis well, if any other hand had done it:  
Some Angel tell my brother now, I did  
But seem consenting.   Sci. 
Ha but seem?  Am. 
You may believe my last breath.  Sci. 
Why didst say so?  Am. 

To gain some time, in hope you might call in  
Your bloody purpose, and prevent the guilt  
Of being my murderer; but Heaven forgive thee.   Sci. 

Again, again, forgive me Amidea,  
And pray for me, live but a little longer,  
To hear me speak, my passion hath betrayed  
Thee to this wound, for which I know not whether  
I should rejoice, or weep, since thou art virtuous:  
The Duke, whose soul is black again, expects thee  
To be his whore: good Death be not so hasty.  
The Agent for his lust, Lorenzo, has  
My Oath to send thee to his bed: for otherwise  
In my denial, hell; and they decree  
When I am dead, to ravish thee: mark that,  
To ravish thee: and I confess in tears,  
As full of sorrow, as thy soul of innocence,  
In my religious care to have thee spotless,  
I did resolve, when I had found thee ripe,  
And nearest Heaven, with all thy best desires  
To send thee to thy peace: thy faind consent  
Hath brought thy happiness more early to thee,  
And saved some guilt, forgive me altogether.   Am. 

With the same heart I beg Heaven for myself,  
Farewell.   Sci. 
Thou shalt not die yet Amidea Sister.  Florio knocks. 

I cannot come:  
But one word more: oh which way went thy soul?  
Or is it gone so far it cannot hear me?   Florio breaks ope the door. Flo. 

Look, here's our Sister! so, so, chafe her:  
She may return; there is some motion.   Flo. 
Sister?  Sci. 

Speak aloud Florio, if her spirit be not  
Departed, I will seal this passage up:  
I feel her breath again, here's Florio  
Would fain take his leave; so, so, she comes.   Flo. 
Amidea, how came this wound?  Am. 

I drew the weapon to it:  
Heaven knows my brother loved me: now I hope  
The Duke won't pursue me with new flames.  
Sciarrha, tell the rest, love one another  
The time you live together: I'll pray for you  
In Heaven, farewell, kiss me when I am dead;  
You else will stay my journey.   She dies. Sci. 

Didst not hear  
An Angel call her? Florio, I have much  
To tell thee, take her up; stay I will talk  
A little more with her, she is not dead,  
Let her alone; nay then she's gone indeed.  
But hereabouts her soul must hover still:  
let's speak to that, fair Spirit.   Flo. 
You talk idly.  Sci. 

Do you talk wisely then? an excellent pattern  
As she now stands for her own Alabaster:  
Or may she not be kept from putrefaction,  
And be the very figure on her Tomb:  
Cannot thy tears and mine preserve her Florio?  
If we want brine, a thousand Virgins shall  
Weep every day upon her, and themselves  
In Winter, leaning round about her Monument,  
Being moist creatures, stiffen with the cold,  
And freeze into so many white supporters.  
But we lose time, I charge thee by thy lo  
To this pale Relic, be instructed by me,  
Not to thy danger; some revenge must be,  
And I am lost already; if thou fall,  
Who shall survive to give us Funeral?   Exeunt. Enter Lorenzo and Petruchio. Lo. 
Petruchio?  Pe. 
My Lord.  Lo. 
thouart now my servant.  Pe. 
I ever was in heart your humblest vassal.  Lo. 

thouart faithful, I must cherish thy desert,  
I shortly shall reward it, very shortly;  
Next morning must salute me Duke; the Sun  
And I must rise together.   Pe. 

I shall pray  
Your glory may outshine him in your Florence,  
And when he sets, we may enjoy your Sunbeam.   Lo. 
'tis handsome flattery, and becomes a Courtier.  Pe. 
I flatter not my Lord.  Lo. 

Then thouart a fool:  
No Music to a Great man chimes so sweetly:  
And men must thrive, come hither, how many  
Hast thou killed?   Pe. 
But one my Lord.  Lo. 
But one?  Pe. 

And I must owe  
My life to your Lordship, I had been hanged else.   Lo. 

But one? wait at the door, he is  
Not fit to kill a Duke, whose hand is guilty  
But of a single murder; or at least  
Not fit alone to act it: I ha' been  
Practised already, and though no man see't,  
Nor scarce the eye of Heaven, yet every day  
I kill a Prince, appear thou Tragic witness.   He discovers the Duke's Picture, a poniard sticking in it. 

Which though it bleed not, I may boast a Murder:  
Here first the Duke was painted to the life:  
But with this Pencil to the death: I love  
My brain for the invention, and thus  
Confirmed, dare trust my resolution.  
I did suspect his youth, and beauty might  
Win some compassion when I came to kill him:  
Or the remembrance that he is my Kinsman,  
Might thrill my blood: or something in his Title,  
Might give my hand repulse, and startle Nature:  
But thus I have armed myself against all pity,  
That when I come to strike, my poniard may  
Through all his charms as confidently wound him,  
As thus I stab his Picture, and stare on it.  
methinks the Duke should feel me now: is not  
His soul acquainted; can he less than tremble  
When I lift up my arm to wound his counterfeit?  
Witches can persecute the lives of whom  
They hate, when they torment their senseless figures,  
And stick the waxen model full of pins.  
Can any stroke of mine carry less spell  
To wound his heart, sent with as great a malice?  
He smiles, he smiles upon me: I will dig  
Thy wanton eyes out, and supply the dark  
And hollow Cells with two pitch burning Tapers:  
Then place thee Porter in some Charnel house  
To light the Coffins in.   Enter Petruchio. Pet. 
My Lord.  Lor. 
The Duke's not come already.  Pet. 
Signior Florio desires to speak with you.  Lor. 

This must retire again into my Closet: admit him. Enter Florio.  
Welcome, how does Sciarrha?   Flo. 

He commends  
His service to your Lordship, and hath sent—   Lor. 
His Sister?  Flo. 

Much ado he had to effect it:  
He hopes his Grace will quickly sign his pardon.   Lor. 
It shall be done.  Flo. 
I have a suit my Lord.  Lor. 
To me?  Flo. 

My Sister would entreat your Honour  
She may be admitted privately, and that  
I may have privilege to prepare her chamber:  
She does retain some modesty, and would not!  
Trust every servant with her shame: their eyes  
Are apt to instruct their tongues.   Lor. 
I won't see her myself, command what you desire.  Flo. 
Y'are gracious.  Lor. 

I'll give directions instantly: poor Lady,  
This is the Duke's hot blood, but Heaven convert him,  
Follow me good Florio.   Flo. 
I attend my Lord.  Lor. 
Things shall be carried honourably.  Flo. 
We are all bound to you.  Exeunt. Recorders. Amidea discovered in a Bed, prepared by two Gentlewomen. 1 
This is a sad employment.  2 
The last we're shall do my Lady.  Enter Florio. Flo. 

So, now you may return, it will become  
Your modest duties, not to inquire the reason  
Of this strange service, nor to publish what  
Y'ave been commanded; let me look upon Ex. gentlewomen.  
My sister now, still she retains her beauty,  
Death has been kind to leave her all this sweetness.  
Thus in a morning have I oft saluted  
My sister in her chamber, sat upon  
Her bed, and talked of many harmless passages,  
But now 'tis night, and a long night with her,  
I ne'er shall see these Curtains drawn again  
Until we meet in heaven. The Duke already.   Enter Duke and Lorenzo. Du. 
May I believe?  Lo. 
Trust me my Lord hereafter.  Du. 

Call me no more thy Lord, but thy companion  
I will not wear that honour in my title,  
Shall not be thine. who's that?   Lo. 
Her brother Florio.  Du. 
She is a-bed.  Lor. 

The readier for your pastime.  
She means no make a night on't.   Flo. 

This shall declare thee to posterity  
The best of Sisters— what of that? and is not  
A brother's life more precious than a trifle?  
I prithee do not sigh: how many Ladies  
Would be ambitious of thy place tonight?  
And thank his Highness? yes, and Virgins too.   Du. 
He pleads for me.  Lo. 
He will deserve some office 'bout your person.  Du. 
With what words shall I express my joy?  Lo. 

I leave you sir to action, Florio  
Is soon dismissed.   Exit. Flo. 
he's come: goodnight—  Du. 
Florio?  Flo. 
Your Slave.  Du. 
My friend! thou shalt be near our bosom.  Flo. 
Pleasures crown your expectation.  Exit. Du. 

All perfect, till this minute, I could never  
Boast I was happy: all this world has not  
A blessing to exchange, this world? 'tis Heaven;  
And thus I take possession of my Saint:  
Asleep already? 'twere great pity to  
Disturb her dream, yet if her soul be not  
tired with the Body's weight, it must convey  
Into her slumbers I wait here, and thus  
Seal my devotion— what winter dwells Kisses.  
Upon this lip? 'twas no warm kiss, I'll try  
Again— the snow is not so cold, I have  
Drunk ice, and feel a numbness spread through  
My blood at once— ha? let me examine  
A little better; Amidea, she is dead, she is dead!  
What horror doth invade me? help Lorenzo;  
Murder, where is Lorenzo?   Enter Lorenzo and Petruchio. Lo. 
Here my Lord.  Du. 

Some Traitor hid within the chamber, see  
My Amidea's dead.   Lo. 

Dead? 'tis impossible,  
Yet, sh'as a wound upon her breast.   Du. 

I prithee kill me: They wound him.  
Ha wilt thou murder me, Lorenzo, villain?  
Oh spare me to consider, I would live  
A little longer: Treason.   Lo. 

A little longer say'ee ?ee  
It was my duty to obey you sir.   Pet. 
let's make him sure my Lord.  Lo. 

What would you say? no cares but ours  
Can reach his voice, but be not tedious.   Du. 

Oh spare me, I may live and pardon thee:  
Thy Prince begs mercy from thee, that did never  
Deny thee any thing; pity my poor soul,  
I have not prayed.   Lo. 

I could have wished you better  
Prepared, but let your soul e'en take his chance.   Wounds him again. Du. 

No tear prevail? oh whither must wander  
Thus Caesar fell by Brutus. I shall tell  
News to the world I go to, will not be  
Believed, Lorenzo killed me.   Lo. 

Will it not?  
I'll presently put in security.   Du. 

I am coming Amidea, I am coming  
For thee inhuman murderer, expect  
My blood shall fly to heaven, and there inflamed,  
Hang a prodigious meteor all thy life.  
And when by some as bloody hand as thine  
Thy soul is ebbing forth, it shall descend  
In flaming drops upon thee: oh I faint!  
Thou flattering world farewell: let Princes gather  
My dust into a glass, and learn to spend  
Their hour of state, that's all they have; for when  
That's out, times never turns the glass again.   Dies. Lo. 

So lay him beside his mistress, hide their faces,  
The Duke dismissed the train came with him.   Pe. 
He did my Lord.  Lo. 

Run to Sciarrha, pray him come, and speak wi'me,  
Secure his passage to this Chamber, haste, Exit Pet.  
he's dead; I'll trust him now, and his ghost too;  
Fools start at shadows, I'm in love with night  
And her complexion.   Enter Petr. Pe. 
My Lord, he's come without your summons.  Lo. 
Already? leave us.  Enter Sciarrha, and Florio. 

Welcome, let embraces  
Chain us together, noble Florio welcome:  
But I must honour thy great soul.   Sci. 
Where's the Duke?  Lo. 
They are a-bed together.  Sci. 
Ha?  Lo. 

he's not stirring yet:  
Thou killed'st thy sister, didst not?   Sci. 
I preserved her.  Lo. 
So it was bravely done.  Sci. 
But where's the wanton Duke?  Lo. 
asleep I tell you.  Sci. 
And he shall sleep eternally.  Lor. 
You cannot wake him, look you.  Sci. 
Is he dead?  Lo. 

And in his death we two begin our life  
Of greatness, and of Empire, nay he's dead.   Sci. 
That labour's saved.  Lo. 

Now I pronounce Sciarrha,  
Thy pardon, and to recompense thy loss,  
The share of Florence, I'll but wear the title,  
The power we'll divide.   Sci. 

I like this well:  
You told a tale once of a common wealth  
And liberty.   Lo. 

It was to gain a faction  
With discontented persons, a fine trick  
To make a buzz of reformation.  
My ends are compassed: hang the ribble rabble.   Sci. 

Shall we sweat for the people? lose our breath  
To get their fame?   Lo. 

I'll have it given out  
The Duke did kill thy sister.   Sci. 
Excellent.  Lo. 

Having first ravished her, he cannot be  
Too hateful; it will dull the examination  
Of his own death, or if that come to question—   Sci. 

What if I say, I killed him in revenge  
Of Amidea? they will pity me.  
Beside, 'twill be in your power to pardon  
Me altogether.   Lo. 
Most discreetly thought on.  Sci. 
The Devil won't leave us o'the sudden.  Lo. 

Rare wit:  
How hastily he climbs the the precipice,  
From whence one fillip topples him to ruin:  
we two shall live like brothers.   Sci. 

stay we two— now I consider better,  
I have no mind to live at all— & you sha'not,  
I'll give you proof, if you but make a noise,  
You gallop to the Devil.   Lo. 
I'm betrayed.  Sci. 

To death inevitable, brother be you  
Spectator only.   Lo. 
This is somewhat noble.  Sci. 

Thank me not Lorenzo, I'll not engage  
His innocence to blood, thy hands are white,  
Preserve 'em Florio, and unless my arms  
Grow feeble, do not interpose thy sword  
I charǵe thee.   Lo. 
None to assist me? help Petruchio, help.  They fight, Enter Petruchio, who offering to run at Sciarrha, is intercepted by Florio, Petruchio, runs in crying help, Florio makes fast the door. Lo. 

Reach thy jaws wider villain, cry out murder,  
Treason, any thing; hold— oh.   Lo. falls. Sci 
Will you not fall Colosus?  Flo. 
Are not you hurt?  Sci. 

I know not. Ha? yes he has pricked me somewhere  
But I'll make sure of him; now must I follow:  
I'll fight with him i'th' tother world— thy hand,  
Florio. Farewell.   Dies. Flo. 

he's dead too: 'tis in vain for me to fly  
Within Break open the doors.   Flo. 
You sha'not need.  Enter Petruchio, Cosmo, Allonso, Frederico, with guard. Al. 
Disarm him.  Cos. 
Lorenzo, and Sciarrha slain?  Al. 
Where is the Duke?  Pet. 
Look here my Lords.  Al. 
What Traitor?  Fre. 
See Amidea murdered too.  Cos. 
I tremble, here is a heap of Tragedies.  Al. 
we must have an account from Florio.  Flo. 
He can inform you best that brought you hither.  Al. 
Lay hands upon Petruchio, disarm him.  Cos. 
What blood is that upon his sword? 'tis fresh.  Pet. 
I'm caught.  Cos. 
To tortures with him.  Pet. 

Spare your fury, know  
'twas the best blood in Florence, I must quit  
Young Florio; Lorenzo, and myself,  
Are only guilty of the PRINCE's death.   Al. 
inhuman traitors?  Co. 
But who killed Amidea?  Flo. 

The Duke's lust:  
There was no other way to save her honour,  
My brother has revenged it here, but fate,  
Denied him triumph.   Al. 

I never heard  
Such killing stories, but 'tis meet, we first  
Settle the state, Cosmo you are the next  
Of blood to challenge Florence.   Cos. 

Pray defer  
That till the morning, drag that murderer  
To prison: Florio, you must not expect  
Your liberty, till all things be examined.  
Lorenzo, now I am above thy malice,  
And will make satisfaction to Oriana.  
'tis a sad night my Lords, by these you see  
There is no stay in proud mortality.   Exeunt.  
FINIS.